Auto Parts: Buying Guides, Explanations and Money-Saving Tips

4 Signs Your Next Vehicle Should Have a Diesel Engine

by Aapo Perala

If you're buying a used vehicle to replace your current vehicle, you have a choice between a regular engine or a diesel engine. Wondering if it's time to make a switch to diesel? There are a number of factors to keep in mind. Here are five signs you may want to opt for a diesel engine:

1. You Want More Fuel Efficiency

In most cases, diesel engines are more efficient. That can save you money on fuel costs. However, it's important to consider where you are driving.

As a general rule of thumb, diesel engines are better for the long haul of highway driving, while petrol engines tend to be better for the start-and-stop routine of city driving. This is because diesel engines take more power to start up after stopping.

2. You Have Affordable Diesel Fuel Available in Your Area

Many people talk about how diesel engines use less petrol, but they often overlook how much diesel costs. In many cases, diesel is more expensive than regular petrol. In addition, you can't always find diesel.

Before you buy a vehicle with a diesel engine, you may want to check the service stations in your area. Just make sure they sell diesel, check the cost per litre and do a bit of price comparison. Ideally, you should know the projected fuel economy of the vehicle you are thinking about buying so that you can make these numbers work.

3. You Do a Lot of Towing

Diesel engines have more torque, and that makes them more effective at hauling items. If you do a lot of towing, you may want to opt for a diesel engine. For instance, if you are buying a ute to tow your boat or caravan, you may prefer diesel.

Note, however, that what you gain in torque, you often sacrifice in horsepower. If your main objective is to go quickly, you may prefer a vehicle with a petrol-powered engine.

4. You Are Interested in Less Maintenance

Just like their petrol counterparts, diesel engines need to be maintained, but they often require less maintenance than petrol engines. In particular, with a diesel engine, you don't have to worry about spark plugs or distributors. If you're tired of that aspect of vehicle maintenance, you may want your next vehicle to have a diesel engine.

To get more details, contact a vehicle salesperson directly. They can help you weigh the pros and cons of both options.

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