We are a full-service auto shop, which means we work on both diesel and gasoline engines. In fact, our certified auto technicians are experts in diesel engines. This means you can count on us for all of your diesel engine maintenance and repair. Diesel engines tend to suffer from common problems, all of which we understand and know how to repair quickly and easily. Here is what they are.
Hard to Start
One of the most common reasons why it can become difficult to start your diesel engine is faulty glow plugs. The glow plugs heat up the combustion chamber so it is hot enough to generate combustion. Generally speaking, a difficult-to-start diesel engine is in need of maintenance. In most cases, this means that it’s time to replace the fuel filter, the fuel injectors, or the glow plugs.
Noticeable Power Loss
If the fuel filter or injectors are clogged and need to be replaced or cleaned, respectively, you will also experience a significant amount of power loss from your diesel engine. This is a sign that the engine is not getting enough diesel fuel to generate the power that you need. If the engine’s power loss is not being caused by a fuel-related problem, it could be caused by excessive lubrication.
Glycol in the Fuel
A diesel engine’s fuel is thick. In fact, it has a thicker consistency than gasoline. Unfortunately, this means that the fuel can be contaminated by contaminants such as glycol. Diesel fuel is also commonly contaminated by water and soot. It is crucial to avoid driving your diesel automobile if you suspect the fuel is contaminated. The contaminated fuel can damage the diesel engine.
Dark Engine Exhaust
Most diesel engines released tiny puffs of black exhaust when you accelerate, but you should not see the black exhaust all the time. If you do, there is too much fuel in the combustion chamber. This causes a rich fuel mixture that burns away the excess fuel and creates black exhaust. Things that can cause the rich fuel mixture include broken fuel injectors or a clogged air filter.
Loud/Noisy Engine
Finally, diesel engine problems can make the engine knock or make other loud noises. For example, if the fuel injectors need to be replaced, the diesel engine may knock. If your engine sounds unusual in any way, drive straight to our shop so we can inspect the engine to find out what’s wrong. If you ignore the noise, you may damage your diesel engine without realizing it.
Give us a call today to schedule an appointment for your diesel automobile if it is overdue for factory-schedule services or if it needs to be repaired.