Audrey's Auto Blog
About Me
Audrey's Auto Blog

Hello! Welcome to my blog. My name is Audrey and today, I would like to invite you all to learn about the wonders of the automobile. I first became interested in the auto mobile after the death of my husband. Until that point, I had no interest in cars at all. My husband did all the driving and I simply had to turn up on time and climb into the back. However, a few days after the funeral, I walked into our garage and I decided that I would learn how to drive and how to maintain an automobile. Our mechanic has been very good at teaching me a few things and giving me some top advice.

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Audrey's Auto Blog

Could Your Diesel Engine Problems Be Traced to Oil or Fuel?

Tracy Arnold

Are you having problems with your vehicle's diesel engine but cannot put your finger on it? It's often hard to get to the bottom of any such issues, but certain problems seem to manifest more often than others. Could your vehicle be suffering from any of the following challenges, and if so, what should you do about it? Read on to learn about diesel diagnostics.

Oil Oxidation

This particular problem can often hit those people who do not use their vehicle frequently or may have left it to sit in one position for a long period of time. When this happens, air from the surrounding atmosphere may contaminate the oil leading to a condition known as "oxidation." When the air gets into the lubricant, it will significantly affect its capability. The oil will begin to thin out, and the air may also contain particles of moisture. This could result in corrosion and will certainly lead to diminished performance.

Oxidised oil may take on a different consistency. The moisture or air could affect its viscosity and even its appearance. You may look at the oil in the engine and wonder why it is so dirty or seems to be more like sludge. In this case, the chemical composition of the oil has been significantly affected, and it will no longer be serviceable.

Change the oil and filters and make sure that you take the vehicle in for a full service. Ask the mechanic if you are using the right oil type, as this makes a big difference. Also, ensure that you run the engine regularly even if you do not actually drive the vehicle.

Bad Fuel

While the air may sometimes contaminate your oil, other similar issues could affect your diesel fuel. Much will depend on where you get your supply and how it is stored or transported. It's not unusual to see glycol, water and even unwanted debris in a diesel fuel tank, and this contamination can often be due to ineffective seals or caps. Just as you should not let your vehicle sit for an extended period of time, nor should you allow diesel fuel to be stored for too long. However, if you purchase such fuel in good faith, it can lead to significant onboard issues.

For example, you may notice that the check engine light is always on or may experience a sudden power loss when on the road. You may find it difficult to start the vehicle or see excess smoke from the exhaust. Also, expect to pay more at the pump.

Other Issues

These are just two potential issues that could affect your diesel-engined vehicle, but they are relatively easy to avoid. If you're suffering from some other problems, get in touch with a mechanic, and they will help you to diagnose them.


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