Diesel engines have been a popular choice for many applications like trucks, buses, and heavy machinery for decades. They offer excellent fuel economy, durability, and torque. However, diesel engines also come with some distinct disadvantages compared to their gasoline counterparts. In this article, we will look at three major drawbacks of diesel engines.
Higher Upfront Costs
One of the most apparent cons of diesel engines is their higher initial purchase price. Modern diesel engines are complex and require advanced fuel injection systems and turbocharging. This makes them significantly more expensive than comparable gas engines.
For example, for full-sized pickup trucks in the US, opting for a diesel engine can add $5000 to $10000 to the vehicle’s base price. The large price premium for a diesel variant makes financial sense only if you plan to drive long miles frequently. The fuel savings will eventually offset the increased upfront costs. But for light to moderate usage, a gas engine is usually a better value purchase.
Maintenance Requirements
Another downside of diesel motors is their demanding maintenance schedules. Diesel engines have high-pressure fuel injection systems with sensitive injector pumps that need periodic calibration. The engines also require regular oil changes, belt replacements, and periodic replacement of fuel filters, air filters, and other consumable items.
Neglecting maintenance on a diesel vehicle can lead to costly repairs. For example, not changing the oil regularly can cause engine damage from sludge buildup. And delaying fuel filter changes allows debris to reach the injection system, necessitating expensive injector repairs. Overall, expect to spend more time and money on keeping a diesel engine running compared to gas engines.
Availability of Diesel Fuel
Drivers also need to consider the availability of diesel versus gasoline when deciding between engine types. While diesel fuel is readily available at truck stops and highways, it may be harder to find in rural areas and smaller towns.
Gas stations with diesel pumps are still outnumbered by gas-only stations, particularly in regions with fewer commercial vehicles. So diesel vehicle owners need to plan fuel stops carefully on long trips to avoid getting stranded. Outages and shortages of diesel also occur more frequently during natural disasters or global supply chain disruptions.
Cold Weather Starting
Diesel engines can also struggle with starting in extremely cold weather. The thick, waxy nature of diesel fuel makes it harder to atomize properly at low temperatures. Cold starts require glow plugs to preheat the cylinders. And if it gets too cold, diesel fuel can gel up and prevent engine turnover altogether.
Gasoline engines with spark plug ignition have a much easier time starting in frigid winter conditions. Additives and engine block heaters can improve cold weather starting for diesels. But it remains a challenge compared to gas engines designed to start easily even in bitter cold.
Increased Emissions
Tighter emissions regulations threaten to take away some of the traditional advantages of diesel engines. Diesel exhaust contains higher levels of particulate emissions like soot as well as NOx gases.
New diesel cars and trucks have to use complex catalytic converters, diesel particulate filters, exhaust gas recirculation, and DEF injection systems to meet strict emissions limits. These additions increase costs for diesel vehicles going forward. Long term emissions durability and maintenance of these systems remains uncertain.
Noise and Odor
Diesel engines are known for their characteristic clattering sound during combustion. The firing noise is louder compared to typical gasoline engines. Diesels are also notorious for their exhaust odor?a pungent smell that can linger around the vehicle when idling or accelerating.
For many buyers, the noise and smell are seen as downsides. Those looking for a quiet, refined driving experience tend to prefer gasoline vehicles. That said, modern diesels have made huge strides in controlling noise and odor. But they tend to be louder and smellier than comparable gas vehicles.
Conclusion
Diesel engines offer substantial strengths for applications like heavy hauling, towing, and fuel efficiency. But interested buyers should also carefully weigh the disadvantages discussed here. The higher upfront cost, frequent maintenance, limited fueling options, cold weather issues, emissions equipment complexity, and noise/smell characteristics are key factors to consider before choosing diesel. Analyzing your specific driving needs will help determine if diesel is ultimately a good fit or if you?re better served by a traditional gasoline or hybrid vehicle.
| Advantage | Disadvantage |
|---|---|
| Excellent fuel economy | Higher upfront costs |
| High torque output | Demanding maintenance requirements |
| Proven durability | Limited availability of diesel fuel |
| Difficult cold weather starting | |
| Increased emissions | |
| Noise and odor |