Auto Repair Grand Rapids: Diesel Engines

When someone mentions diesels around Grand Rapids – 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 Grand Rapids, but they are finding their way into nearly every segment of the MI 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 Grand Rapids 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 Grand Rapids motorists may not even be able to tell the difference between riding in or driving a diesel powered vehicle. So what are the factors to examine 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 Grand Rapids drivers need to do the math to see how long it will take the increased gas mileage to pay for the extra up-front cost of a diesel engine. The cost of diesel fuel in Ada 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 MI. Just watch diesel and gas prices for a while (or talk with a diesel owner in Grand Rapids) 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 Grand Rapids, the extra power many diesel engines offer (while getting better gas mileage than a gas engine) may impact 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 opt for a diesel engine, remember that it still requires important 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 considerate Spaanstra Bros. Automotive Service service advisor will be able to help you properly maintain your diesel vehicle, helping it last longer and continue to deliver great performance and fuel efficiency.

Spaanstra Bros 
Auto Repair Team Grand Rapids