Are you the owner or operator of a diesel-powered vehicle? If so, it’s important that you stay on top of preventative maintenance so your vehicle can hold up to whatever operational needs you need it to meet. All vehicles, of course, require preventative maintenance, but diesel-powered vehicles have slightly different maintenance needs than what you’d find in standard gas-powered vehicles.

Here’s a quick overview of some important diesel engine maintenance tips in Corpus Christi, TX for you to keep in mind:

  • Always watch fluids: You need to make sure your fluids are at the proper levels and are in good condition. Engine oil, for example, keeps all moving parts properly lubricated so you don’t have issues with friction and wear and tear causing damage inside your vehicle. Engine coolant is just as important as engine oil—it prevents engine overheating and coolant freezing, and other forms of damage caused to cylinder liners. Finally, window washer fluid doesn’t have an effect on the operation of your vehicle, but you need to keep the reservoir filled up so you can safely clean your windshield while driving.
  • Change filters at appropriate intervals: Filters are a crucial part of diesel engine operation. Dirty fuel filters will restrict or stop the flow of fuel to the engine, resulting in reduced performance and potential inoperability of the engine. Oil filters remove particles that could potentially cause damage to the internal components of your engine. Air filters ensure the engine gets a clean supply of air. Diesel particulate filters (DPFs) are a crucial part of your exhaust system that burns off soot and prevents it from being released into the air.
  • Keep it clean: A buildup of soot, dust and grime can not only make your truck a mess, but it can also result in more inefficient operation of your engine. Keeping the truck clean also gives you a chance to notice issues before they become big problems, as you’ll be paying closer attention to your engine. You may be able to find potential oil or coolant leaks, broken hoses or other issues.
  • Inspect the exhaust system: The vehicle’s exhaust system is crucial to its overall wellbeing. Exhaust systems have seen some significant advancements in technology over the years, and DPFs and diesel exhaust fluid systems have been developed in such a way that they are able to meet all EPA emissions standards. It’s particularly important to keep an eye on DPF regeneration. If it’s happening more frequently than you’re used to, it’s important to have a technician take a look at the system and determine why. You may need to clean your DPF filter more often than you are currently doing to ensure it does not prevent efficient operation.

These are just a few examples of some of our most important diesel engine maintenance tips in Corpus Christi, TX. For more information about how you can keep your diesel engines in excellent condition for as long as possible, contact Coastal Diesel Injection to speak with our team of diesel technicians today.