Something you've probably seen and heard a lot more about recently is diesel engines. We're not talking about semi-trucks and buses; we're talking about diesel engine cars, utes and SUVs.
Most people in are surprised to learn that around half the cars on the road in Europe have diesel engines. Nearly all import brands offer a range of diesel engines abroad – even the ultra-luxury brands like Mercedes and BMW.
As diesel engine technology has improved with the introduction of Common Rail diesel engines over the past several years we are starting to see more diesel options offered over by vehicle manufacturers.
Why are so many people interested in diesel engines? Well first off, diesel is more energy dense. There's more power in a drum of diesel fuel than there is in a drum of petrol. The result? Better performance and improved fuel economy.
Diesel powered vehicles get about 20 percent better fuel economy. As for power – why do you think that the majority of new utes are being sold with diesel engines?
If you think back to the late 1970's and 1980's and even into the 1990's, you may shudder when you think of the diesel powered cars of the day – noisy, smoky, under-powered beasts that rattled and shook their passengers. Modern diesels sold have evolved considerably.
They are quiet, clean – and powerful. They're so refined that many drivers can't even tell they're driving a diesel powered vehicle. In addition to fuel savings, diesels generally last longer than petrol engines because of their heavy duty construction.
There is a lot of buzz about hybrid cars at the moment. Some manufacturers are looking into diesel-electric hybrids in years to come to make a good idea even better.
Every year, manufacturers introduce new diesel models.
New diesel vehicle owners need to know that properly maintaining a diesel engine is somewhat different than a petrol engine. Fluid change intervals are different. Emissions control devices have to work harder to filter diesel fuel and to scrub the exhaust so you will need to pay attention to that. And the fuel injection system operates at much higher pressures than petrol fuel injection systems, so it's important to keep your fuel system clean with a diesel.
The good news is that Oil Changers is keeping up with the new diesel technology and will be able to advise you on maintaining your diesel.
When we tell you to look for more diesels you won't be looking for smoky tail pipes as a clue. You also won't be listening for that familiar big rig rattle. And, you certainly won't be waiting for them at the stoplight, because modern diesels are as quick as their petrol counterparts.
Oil Changers
www.oilchangers.co.nz