Hi-Tech Car Care Auto Service and Maintenance Guide: Diesel Engines

When someone mentions diesels around Phoenix – images of smoky, rattly trucks may spring to mind. The fact is that the modern clean diesel engine is much more refined than in the old days. Sure, diesel engines remain a very popular choice with heavy duty pick-up truck drivers in Phoenix, but they are finding their way into nearly every segment of the AZ automotive market. Why is that? Well, its science.Diesel fuel contains more energy than the same amount of gasoline. So it takes less diesel fuel to do the same amount of work as gas – so Phoenix diesel drivers get more miles per gallon and lower emissions. In Europe, where fuel is very expensive and high mileage is very important, around half of passenger vehicles are powered by diesel engines. This goes for small economy cars all the way up to the world’s most costly luxury vehicles.The driving experience is also very good with diesel engines – in fact Phoenix drivers may not even be able to tell the difference between riding in or driving a diesel powered vehicle. So what are the factors to consider when deciding whether or not to choose a diesel engine?One consideration is price. Diesel engines cost more to build and are an extra cost option for most vehicles. So Phoenix motorists need to do the math to see how long it will take the increased fuel efficiency to pay for the extra up-front cost of a diesel engine. The cost of diesel fuel in Phoenix is also a factor. There is no clear correlation between gas prices and diesel prices because the refining and distribution systems are so different. This means that the difference in price per gallon for diesel and gasoline can vary a great deal depending on where you live in AZ. Just watch diesel and gas prices for a while (or talk with a diesel owner in Phoenix) so you can get a feel for how much price per gallon figures into your purchase decision.Also important to look at is your expected use of the vehicle. For example, if you tow heavy trailers or haul heavy loads around Phoenix, the extra power many diesel engines offer (while getting better gas mileage than a gas engine) may sway your decision. Your highway/city driving mix may play into the decision as well. Diesels shine in the highway mileage department. And the more you drive in a year, the more attractive diesel engines become.If you settle upon a diesel engine, remember that it still requires critical maintenance like your gas powered vehicles always have. Oil changes, cooling system service, power steering, brakes, tires, etc. – all need to be maintained. Some of the schedules may be different because of the unique design of diesel engines. Your appreciative Hi-Tech Car Care service professional will be able to help you properly maintain your diesel vehicle, helping it last longer and continue to deliver great performance and fuel efficiency.

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Hi-Tech Car Care
2924 E Thomas Road
Phoenix, AZ 85016
602.224.0941

At Hi-Tech Car Care in Phoenix AZ (85016) we install quality NAPA replacement parts. Give us a call at 602.224.0941. To learn more about NAPA AutoCare, visit www.NAPAAutoCare.com  .

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