The Hidden Costs of Owning a Diesel: How to Avoid Them

Diesel trucks have always been the synonyms of power, torque, and practically never-ending miles per gallon. But beneath its metal hood and rumbling sound lies a network of concealed expenditures that may hit your wallet really hard. These are often referred to as the hidden costs of owning a diesel, and they can surprise even the most prepared truck owners. At Phoenix Diesel Repair , we have seen so many diesel owners who needed our guidance because of these problems, and now we want to impart this knowledge to you so that you’re better equipped to make informed decisions.

• • Many diesel trucks can come with a large “diesel premium” right off the bat.

• • Fuel costs can swing wildly and won’t always be cheaper than gasoline.

• • Maintenance for a diesel engine is generally more frequent and costly.

• • Diesel trucks may also depreciate faster than the same ones running only on gas.

Initial Investment: The Diesel Premium

You only have to walk onto any dealer lot to realize that the diesel option comes with some type of price premium over a gasoline-burning variant. Models like the GMC Sierra, Ford F-150, and Ram 1500 charge significantly higher prices for a diesel-powered variant of their trucks. The amount added on to the exact price tag can range from a few thousand dollars for a low trim level of an older model to tens of thousands more than its gasoline equivalent. These price differences, however, are just the beginning of the hidden costs of owning a diesel, which can include maintenance, repairs, and fuel expenses that are often overlooked.

Most of the time, this first investment in diesel comes as a surprise to customers here at Phoenix Diesel Repair. Yes, with “Duramax,” “Cummins,” and “Power Stroke” badges, the allure can be great, but there’s a diesel premium to be factored in when considering your budget.

Fuel Costs Aren’t Always What They Seem

One of the major attractions of diesel engines is their promise of better fuel economy. While it is true that diesel can be more fuel-efficient than gasoline engines, especially when towing or hauling heavy loads, reality really is more complicated than this oversimplification.

Diesel fuel prices can vary tremendously and, in many areas, are higher than gasoline. Sometimes diesel costs more per gallon than gasoline does. Additionally, the hidden costs of owning a diesel can significantly impact overall affordability. Another downside to diesels is fuel economy; if you don’t regularly tow or haul heavy loads, the advantage of a diesel’s fuel economy may not be as great as you would think.

Our diesel engine technicians at Phoenix Diesel Repair can optimize your diesel for improved fuel efficiency. With our offered specialized services and diesel vehicle knowing, rest assured that you are squeezing every gallon mile for gallons consumed.

Maintenance

Inbuilt into the price of the diesel, the ordering of special care and attention makes it dearer than gasoline. Oil change intervals are more frequent, needing expensive synthetic oil. Moreover, diesel trucks have diesel exhaust fluid to meet new emissions standards—yet another addition to your upkeep routine. These are just a few examples of the hidden costs of owning a diesel that can catch you off guard over time.

Diesel engine repairs may also be more complicated and more expensive because of the intricate components and high-pressure systems involved. If something goes wrong, you might find yourself in the throes of hefty repair bills, especially when you are dependent on dealerships for service. Additionally, many vehicle owners underestimate the hidden costs of owning a diesel, which can include higher maintenance expenses and repair complexities.

Phoenix Diesel Repair provides diesel maintenance and repair at competitive prices with expert service. Our team knows the intricacies of how a diesel engine works and can help you keep your truck running smoothly for years to come.

Resale Value: The Factor of Depreciation

If you ever go to sell or trade-in your truck, it may come as an unpleasant surprise to you that diesels don’t hold their value as well as gasoline-powered vehicles do. Several reasons account for this: more miles are likely to be put on the truck; potential buyers are leery of the potential for higher future maintenance costs; and the high diesel prices that fluctuate. Additionally, many buyers are wary of the hidden costs of owning a diesel, such as increased repair expenses and specialized maintenance needs.

If you go to assess your diesel truck, a pre-sale inspection with Phoenix Diesel Repair can help ensure the vehicle is in fine running condition and you could possibly see a few extra dollars at resale.

Phoenix Diesel Repair provides diesel maintenance and repair at competitive prices with expert service. Our team knows the intricacies of how a diesel engine works and can help you keep your truck running smoothly for years to come.

Is Diesel Right for You?

This will be a difficult decision between diesel and gasoline trucks, with many factors to consider. Here are the key elements broken down to help you make a well-informed decision:

Towing and Hauling

If you’re into serious trailer towing or hauling on a regular basis, the additional torque and power of a diesel really make a difference. Added power along with more low-end torque from diesel can make such tasks of towing and hauling a lot easier and safer.

Annual Mileage

Diesel engines do tend to excel at fuel economy over long distances, as in long trips or under heavy loads. If you are clocking high mileage regularly every year, the fuel savings associated with diesel engines will more than compensate for the extra upfront costs and expenditure on maintenance. However, for people who have an annual mileage that comes under low readings, fuel savings may not be large enough to justify additional investment in this project.

Budget

Diesels are a lot more expensive than their gasoline-using cousins. So it is upfront and in the bigger picture of what you spend over the life of the vehicle. Once this important question comes up, go through your budget carefully to think about the overall cost of ownership.

Driving Style

Diesel engines often give drivers a different feel than gasoline engines do. In general, diesels have much more low-end torque that could be really useful during towing and hauling, but it will be way less responsive in everyday driving conditions. Consider your driving preference and make a need for where priority should be placed in terms of power, torque, or fun.

Environmental Impact

Though diesel has dramatically improved in terms of reducing emissions, it tends to run higher on nitrogen oxide (NOx) than gasoline engines. If you are highly interested in environmental protection, then definitely consider the overall environmental impact of both diesel and gasoline options.

How Does the Cost of Owning a Diesel Compare to Owning a Petrol Vehicle?

Generally, a diesel will involve a higher upfront cost than its petrol equivalent because of higher purchase prices and maintenance costs in comparison. However, when considering the hidden costs of owning a diesel, it is important to note that diesel cars also have the major advantages of better fuel economy and superior residual values. These benefits can save money in the long term, especially for users who cover large mileage.

Make an Informed Decision with Phoenix Diesel Repair

At Phoenix Diesel Repair, we can help you make a very informed decision based on what will suit your needs and wallet best. We specialize in diesel vehicles (routine maintenance, repairs, performance upgrades, and pre-purchase inspection), but that will not bias our advice at all. When considering a diesel vehicle, it’s essential to be aware of the hidden costs of owning a diesel, so you can make the best choice for your situation.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you unfold the entire potential of your diesel truck.