Diesel engines are one of the most efficient engines that are in use today. They also have a reputation of emitting more exhaust into the atmosphere, even when using clean diesel alternatives, because the engines are often kept running. Nonetheless, there is often more power in a diesel engine and that makes it an attractive option. Here are some additional key pros and cons of diesel engines to consider as well.
What Are the Pros of Diesel Engines?
1. Diesel engines get phenomenal gas mileage.
Compared to the standard gasoline engine with a similar performance level, a diesel engine may get up to 30% better gas mileage under normal operating condition. Even when diesels are compared to hybrid vehicles, the fuel performance is nearly equal.
2.There are lower maintenance costs for diesel engines.
You’ll find that a diesel engine doesn’t need any spark plugs to operate. There isn’t a distributor with this engine either. With fewer parts requiring maintenance, the costs of operating a diesel engine over the long-term tend to be lower.
3. They have a proven longevity.
Diesel engines that have been manufactured by Mercedes-Benz have registered more than 900,000 miles of operation. For the standard vehicle engine, many owners are lucky to top the 200,000 mile mark. This means a diesel engine makes for a good investment in the transportation industry too.
What are the Cons of Diesel Engines?
1. The fuel has become quite expensive.
Although diesel fuel used to be much cheaper than standard gasoline, new regulation have caused price increases that make this fuel more expensive. Commercial and industrial demand for this fuel has also increased, driving up costs that will likely continue to rise for consumers.
2. Diesel engines are more costly to repair.
The modern diesel engine has number of technological advancements to it that help it run longer and emit less exhaust. This means when the engine does break down for some reason, it’s going to cost more to repair.
3. You may need to bleed water out of the system.
Diesel engines tend to create water as they operate, which means a build-up of fluids can have a devastating effect on the engine. Older diesels required owners to bleed the water out, but even today you’ll need to empty out a water separator.
The pros and cons of diesel engines show that this is a power piece of technology, but one that you must manage properly. As diesel technologies improve they may continue to stay competitive with the hybrid industry, but only if fuel costs can stay reasonably close.
Crystal Lombardo is a contributing editor for Vision Launch. Crystal is a seasoned writer and researcher with over 10 years of experience. She has been an editor of three popular blogs that each have had over 500,000 monthly readers.
