Key Highlights
- Diesel advantages for road trips: More torque (for towing), often better fuel economy, and renowned durability.
- Crucial pre-trip checks: Oil and filter change (use diesel-specific oil)
- Check all fluids (coolant, brakes, etc.)
- Inspect tires and brakes
- Test battery
- Fuel quality: Use high-quality diesel fuel for optimal performance.
- Towing: Expect lower MPG when towing. Not the focus of this article, but it should be mentioned.
- Phoenix diesel repair : Your diesel experts for pre-trip inspections and maintenance. Contact us!
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The holidays are approaching, and for many, that means hitting the open road. If you’re the proud owner of a diesel vehicle, you know the benefits they offer for long distances and towing. But before you embark on your holiday adventure across the United States (or even a shorter trip), it’s crucial to ensure your diesel is ready for the journey. At Phoenix Diesel Repair, we see many vehicles come through our doors needing pre-trip maintenance, so we’ve put together this guide to help you avoid any roadside surprises.
Why Diesel for Road Trips?
Okay, now let’s discuss why diesel engines are better for road trips, especially if you’re towing a camper or hauling anything. The key is in how a diesel engine , an example of internal combustion, works. While gasoline engines work with spark ignition, meaning a spark plug ignites the fuel-air mixture, diesel engines use compression ignition. This means air pressure in the cylinders is raised to an exceedingly high level, with concomitant high temperatures. When diesel fuel is injected into this hot, high-compression air, it ignites spontaneously. This high compression, which produces continuous force and rotational force, allows diesel engines to produce much more torque than comparable gasoline engines. Torque is the rotational force that gets you moving and towing. This is why vehicles like the Chevrolet Silverado, Ram, Ford Super Duty pickup trucks, Chevrolet Tahoe, GMC Yukon, and Cadillac Escalade SUVs offer diesel engines. The Duramax in the Silverado and Sierra is a strong turbo diesel engine that is also very reliable.
Originally, diesel engines were used in heavy machinery and were known for their reliability but not efficiency. Modern diesel engines, however, are quite different, as today’s industry produces low-emission diesel vehicles. Elements like turbocharging have helped modern diesel engines become much more efficient than before, with great diesel (mpg) fuel efficiency and good power responsiveness. Compared to gasoline engines, this means less frequent stops at the fuel station and more money in your pocket if you are a long-distance driver.
Pre-Trip Checks for Your Diesel Vehicle
Now let us move on to the basics of what you need to do to prepare your diesel vehicle for the holiday road trip. Whether you’re on a Jeep Wrangler, Jeep Gladiator, Range Rover, Volkswagen, Audi, a Sprinter van, or even a Peugeot if you’re in Europe, these checks are pertinent.
- Oil change
This is non-negotiable. New oil prevents deterioration of the engine components such as the piston by minimizing friction through lubrication. It is recommended that a high top-up quantity be maintained, considering the use of high-quality diesel fuel-specific oil. We at Phoenix Diesel Repair can advise which range of oil is best for your particular diesel model.
- Filters
Change your fuel filter and air filter. A diesel fuel filter should be clean so that it is able to let out the correct amount of diesel fuel to the engine, and an air filter should also be clean so that air will be available in the right proportions to enable it to burn. Where biodiesel is used, these should also be checked with even greater care.
- Fluid levels
Inspect all fluids: antifreeze/coolant, power steering fluid, brake fluid, and transmission fluid. By this, I mean standard and automatic transmission fluid.
- Tires
Look at your tires and assess the pressure and the treads, and be sure there aren’t any signs of wear or harm. The right tire pressure leads to better fuel consumption and road control.
- Brakes
Check whether the condition of your brakes is good or bad. This is important, especially if you will be towing equipment or an automobile.
- Battery
This can be as simple as having your battery tested to know its current condition. Cold can also put a lot of pressure on batteries, and perhaps this is the reason for developing cold-weather batteries.
- Fuel system
Let us talk about diesel fuel system cleaning. It can be helpful in removing deposits, thus improving fuel economy.
- Exhaust system
Look at the top and think about fitting covers if you have a turbo diesel engine. Take time to ensure no oil is leaking or if anything is damaged.
- Cooling system
Check up on the hose, belt, and the radiator to find if there are some signs that indicate that they should be replaced. There could be a problem with the cooling system, and things like the engine overheating can occur, particularly when towing or taking a long journey in hot weather.
Diesel Fuel Considerations
Selecting the right diesel fuel goes beyond simply choosing your favorite distributor; it means selecting a fuel option that will enhance your vehicle’s efficiency. Though nearly all diesel sold in the United States meets the standards, there is still a difference between standard and premium diesel. It is also important to note that using a higher grade of diesel fuel has its advantages. You could think of it as the difference between using a bottle of Bordeaux and table wine, though both will do the job.
With that said, it is not hard to see how repeated premium diesel use can mean better fuel efficiency, a better burn, and probably a longer engine lifespan. You also have to know that your diesel’s fuel economy, in terms of miles per gallon or mpg, is not a constant figure. Numerous things affect your mpg, and knowing them can prevent you from getting frustrated with low figures and even make you consciously try to achieve higher ones.
- Driving style: Aggressive acceleration and hard braking consume more fuel. A smoother, more consistent driving style will generally yield better mpg.
- Terrain: Driving uphill requires more power, thus consuming more fuel. Conversely, driving downhill can improve fuel economy. If your holiday road trip involves mountainous terrain, be prepared for a potential dip in mpg.
- Load: This is a big one, especially for diesel vehicle owners who frequently tow. If you’re hauling a heavy load, such as a camper, boat, or trailer, your engine has to work harder, which directly impacts fuel consumption. Expect a noticeable decrease in mpg when towing, and plan your fuel stops accordingly.
So, while you can’t control the terrain entirely, you can control your driving style and be mindful of your load. Choosing quality diesel fuel is another way to maximize your fuel efficiency and ensure your diesel engine performs optimally throughout your holiday journey.
Phoenix Diesel Repair : Your Diesel Experts
Phoenix Diesel Repair understands the intricacies of diesel engines. We can help you prepare your diesel vehicle for any adventure, whether it’s a cross-country road trip or a weekend getaway. We handle everything from routine maintenance to complex repairs, ensuring your diesel is running at its best. Whether you need help with your Duramax, Powerstroke, Cummins, or any other diesel engine, we can assist.
Before you hit the road, bring your diesel vehicle to Phoenix Diesel Repair for a pre-trip inspection. We’ll make sure you’re ready for the miles ahead. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
