Diesel trucks are the workhorses of the industrial world with their ability to move heavy loads. Like gasoline-powered vehicles, they require periodic maintenance. When searching for a diesel specialist near you, trust Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville.
Common Problems That Plague Diesel Engines
Similar to gasoline, diesel engines are susceptible to overheating from old or low levels of oil or coolant. Changing fluids according to the manufacturer’s recommendations keeps both engine types running optimally.
However, certain issues arise more often in a diesel engine due to its design. Often, these troubles occur because of one or several failing parts. Incorrectly diagnosing your issue can lead to unnecessary and costly repairs. This is why it’s important to find a qualified diesel specialist near you.
Typically, diesel engines may develop any one of these common problems:
1. Hard Starting
One or more of these components may be responsible for difficulty starting your diesel truck:
- Weak/failing battery
- Clogged air filter
- Failing glow plugs
- Fuel injector issues
- Low compression
2. Visible Exhaust
Typically, diesel exhaust is colorless. If you see smoke, it usually indicates the engine isn’t running properly.
- Black/gray smoke – This color of smoke means the air to fuel ratio is off, resulting in incomplete combustion. A clogged air filter, a dirty EGR valve, a failing MAF, or faulty injectors may be the cause.
- White smoke – Sometimes you’ll see this color when the engine is cold because the engine isn’t hot enough to burn the fuel. If you continue to see white smoke after the engine warms up, you probably have a fuel injection problem.
- Blue Smoke – Worn-out piston rings, valve sleeves, or seals can allow engine oil to leak into the combustion chamber to burn.
3. Decrease In Power
When your diesel truck has difficulty accelerating or maintaining speed, one of the following parts may be failing or clogged:
- Fuel filter
- Exhaust system
- Air filter
- Diesel particulate filter
- Fuel pump
- Sensors
- EGR Valve
4. Engine Vibration
Due to diesel combustion, these engines naturally vibrate more than gasoline-powered vehicles. However, excessive vibrations can cause parts to wear more quickly, resulting in costly repairs. One of the most common causes of a noticeable shake in diesel trucks is misfiring.
This occurs if there’s incomplete combustion in the chamber from one or more cylinders. In a diesel engine, this happens due to one of these reasons:
- Contaminated fuel
- Low fuel pressure
- Malfunctioning or clogged fuel injectors
- Air in the fuel system
- Poor compression ratio due to worn piston rings
- Clogged air filter
Finding A Diesel Specialist Near Me
As you can see, diesels share some similarities with gasoline engines, but also have some other unique characteristics. Misunderstanding issues and repairing them incorrectly could lead to further engine damage. Hiring a qualified diesel truck mechanic ensures a correct diagnosis and quality repair.
To find a reputable mechanic for diesel truck repair, begin by asking friends and family for recommendations. Then, look at online reviews for positive reviews from satisfied customers. Next, visit the diesel repair shop to see the facilities and talk with employees in person. While you’re there, ask them questions about their experience, certifications, and diagnostic equipment.
If you live in the Triad Piedmont area, your search for diesel truck repair near you just got easier. For over 25 years, the highly skilled team at Xpress Lube has been servicing and repairing different vehicle classifications. This includes foreign, domestic, gasoline, or diesel engines.
With ASE-certified technicians and modern diagnostic equipment, we’ll get you back on the road quickly. Moreover, as a locally owned business, we strive to build long-lasting relationships with our community. Many of our customers have been using our services for years.
FAQs About Diesel Engines
Are you experiencing an issue with your diesel light-duty truck? Call Xpress Lube at 336-904-6319, and one of our friendly staff members will assist you. Below, we answer a few commonly asked questions about diesel engines.
What Types Of Routine Maintenance Do Diesel Trucks Need?
Of course, diesel engines require routine servicing to run properly. The exact timing of these maintenance tasks varies based on the manufacturer’s recommendations, part/fluid quality, driving environment, and habits. Below are some general guidelines for scheduling servicing:
- Oil change with filter replacement – 3,000 to 10,000 miles
- Coolant flush – 2 years or 30,000 miles
- Air filter – 15,000 miles or yearly
- Fuel filters – most diesel engines have 2, requiring replacement every 15,000 miles or yearly
- Diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) – as indicated by the dashboard instrument or every 3-4 fill-ups
- Water trap – this also has a dashboard indicator light letting you know when to drain it
What Is The Average Lifespan Of A Diesel Engine?
Diesel engines’ overall design and durability give them a much longer lifespan than gas-powered vehicles. Typically, a diesel engine can last 400,000 to 1,000,000 miles with proper maintenance.
Are Diesel Engine Trucks More Expensive To Maintain Than Gasoline-Powered Powered?
Actually, you get a better return on your investment by owning a diesel over a gasoline engine vehicle. While maintenance and repairs may cost more, parts are more robust and longer-lasting than gas engines. Typically, you’ll have fewer trips to the auto repair shop.
Furthermore, the average lifespan of a gas-powered vehicle is 200,000 -300,000 miles. This is roughly half the longevity of a diesel engine.
Trust Havoline® Xpress Lube Of Kernersville For All Your Diesel Pickup Truck Needs
When your diesel truck isn’t running right, don’t trust just any mechanic to fix it. You need a quality diesel specialist near me with experience and a reputation for excellent work. For all diesel repair, call Xpress Lube at 336-904-6319 to schedule a diagnostic test today!
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