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If you drive a diesel vehicle, pay attention to these 7 points to avoid being stranded in cold weather!

  • February 22, 2024
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Properties of diesel fuel, There are several methods to address problems arising from engine operating principles and the effects of cold weather on the engine. If you too

If you drive a diesel vehicle, pay attention to these 7 points to avoid being stranded in cold weather!

Properties of diesel fuel, There are several methods to address problems arising from engine operating principles and the effects of cold weather on the engine.

If you too when purchasing a vehicle If you have opted for a diesel car but want to take good care of your car in both summer and winter, you can keep some of the points we provide in mind. So, let’s first see why diesel fuel differs from gasoline, and then move on to the usage recommendations.

What is the difference between diesel and petrol engines?

Effect of cold weather on diesel engine

Engines, the heart of vehicles, work differently in diesel and petrol cars. The main difference between the two is is how the fuels are ignited. Gasoline engines work by igniting fuel mixed with air with a spark plug and with a relatively low compression ratio.

diesel engines It injects the fuel directly into the combustion chamber and, thanks to the high compression ratio, the air spontaneously heats up and ignites the fuel. This difference occurs in cold weather conditions performance of diesel engines It is one of the main reasons that affects petrol engines more than gasoline engines.

How does cold weather affect diesel engines?

How much does fuel consumption increase in winter?

  • Viscosity of fuel
  • air compression
  • Battery performance
  • Crystallization of paraffin
  • glow plug

Viscosity of fuel

diesel fuel, It has a structure whose viscosity (resistance to flow) increases in cold weather conditions. This situation, reduces the fluidity of the fuel and can damage the engine’s fuel system. In particular, it can have negative effects on the fuel pumps and injectors, causing the engine to malfunction.

air compression

diesel engine

The ignition process of diesel engines depends on the temperature of the compressed air. There is no spark at ignition like with gasoline. warm weather has been used. As the air is compressed it heats up creating a much higher compression ratio at the point where it becomes hot for ignition. This makes it difficult for the starter motor to function and increases electrical energy.

Battery performance

Cold weather also reduces the amount of energy stored by the battery. Since diesel engines have a higher compression ratio than gasoline engines, need more power they hear. This can make it difficult to start diesel vehicles in cold weather. Because it puts more strain on the battery.

Crystallization of paraffin

fuel production in cold weather

Diesel fuel tends to crystallize in cold weather conditions paraffin Contains. These crystals can clog the fuel filter and block fuel flow, preventing the engine from starting.

glow plug

Many diesel engines are preheated to make starting easier. glow plugs applications. If you start the engine cold without giving the spark plugs enough time to warm up, the spark plugs will fail.

Tips for using a diesel engine in cold weather

diesel engine filter

  • Turn on your heating.
  • Improve and replenish your fuel.
  • Choose the ideal motor oil.
  • Check your battery.
  • Use suitable tires.
  • Replace filter and antifreeze.
  • Leave your vehicle in a protected place.

Turn on your heating.

Engine heaters ensure that the engine and engine oil are preheated, making operation easier and reducing the risk of wear. Therefore, you need to spend a certain amount of time before using the tool. must be activated.

Although for the comfort of the driver and passengers, it is important to preheat the cabin heater for comfort in the vehicle. fogging of interior windows It also prevents.

Improve and replenish your fuel. (As much as possible in this day and age.)

diesel fuel

Designed for winter use, especially in cold regions winter diesel fuel should be used. These fuels perform better at lower temperatures and reduce the risk of freezing.

Lowers the freezing point of diesel fuel One of the precautions to be taken is the use of additives that prevent paraffin crystallization in the fuel system. By using these you can improve fuel flow by preventing the fuel filter from becoming clogged.

Finally, clean your fuel tank to prevent gelled fuel from causing problems in cold weather. Make sure it stays full. The winter diesel fuel you use in particular also reduces the risk of freezing.

Choose the ideal motor oil.

motor oil diesel engine

Especially for cold weather a light engine oil You can pass. This means that you need to take good care of your engine at this stage as it will need adequate lubrication when starting. You can opt for light engine oils recommended by the engine manufacturer.

Check your battery.

battery maintenance

Cold weather can significantly reduce battery performance. Before the winter season starts check the condition of the battery and install a new one if necessary. Also make sure that the battery terminals are clean and secure.

Replace filter and antifreeze.

Fuel and air filters Keeping it clean and functional is critical to efficient engine operation. These filters may need to be checked before the winter season and replaced if necessary.

To reduce the risk of freezing of the cooling system, the level and quality of the antifreeze should be checked. If necessary, antifreeze must be added or needs to be replaced.

Use suitable tires.

winter tire

Provides better grip on snowy and icy roads in winter winter tires a transition must take place. Keep in mind that winter tires have a compound that performs better in cold weather conditions.

Additionally, cold weather can lower tire pressure. Regularly check the tire pressure and adjust to manufacturer’s recommended levels.

Leave your vehicle in a protected place.

A sheltered location can be better for your vehicle in every way. The wind to the engine, Does not blow snow and ice Parking somewhere makes a difference when starting your car.

How to start a diesel engine in winter?

No matter how many precautions you take, it’s still helpful to follow a few steps before starting your car. If your vehicle is an automatic “Park” in manual mode “inactive” Make sure it is on and turn the ignition switch or press the starter button while lightly pressing the accelerator. Do not press the accelerator pedal too much to avoid flooding the engine.

If you have a diesel-powered vehicle, you can ensure a safer and more comfortable driving experience by taking these precautions. Keep your vehicle safe by minimizing the potential effects of cold weather on the engine and fuel system. You can prepare it for winter conditions.

Sources: Cars, Perkins, Fleet Maintenance, Automotive Training Centers

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