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When you’re considering a vehicle purchase, there are multiple factors to consider, from the size and type of vehicle to the estimated fuel economy. One determining factor in fuel economy is whether the vehicle has a diesel or a gas engine. Although gas engines are more common in passenger cars, there are times when a diesel engine is the better choice. To help you decide, the first step is understanding the difference between the two engines and how the type of fuel influences mileage, auto repairs, the environment, and more. 

How Vehicle Engines Work

At their core, both diesel and gas engines work the same way. They are both internal combustion engines, meaning that they convert the fuel into energy by a series of small explosions, or combustions. These explosions provide the mechanical energy necessary to power the vehicle’s engine.

What sets diesel and gas engines apart, though, is how they create the combustion. A gas engine mixes the fuel with air, which is then compressed by the pistons and ignited by sparks created by spark plugs.

With a diesel engine, the air is compressed first, causing it to heat up. The fuel is then injected into the compressed air, and combusts due to the heat. However, diesel engines don’t have spark plugs, so they never have to be replaced, unlike gas engines, but this means issues with the fuel injection system could lead to serious auto repairs. 

The Pros and Cons of Each Engine

auto repairBoth gas and diesel engines have their pros and cons, and for many drivers, the choice comes down to preference. However, there are some important points to keep in mind.

For instance, diesel fuel tends to be more efficient in terms of mileage, as it provides more energy per unit of weight than gas. In other words, you need less diesel to accomplish the same amount of work as gas. This is why diesel is a popular choice for large vehicles like RVs or heavy-duty trucks used for towing. With a diesel engine, you’ll use less fuel to power such a large engine, but even in smaller vehicles, though, it’s possible to drive more miles per gallon than with gas. 

On the downside, diesel fuel does cost more than regular gas, and not all stations offer it. Diesel engines also sound different from regular engines—and can be louder—and although great strides have been made, they have higher emission levels than gas engines. That said, diesel engines do typically require less maintenance and are less prone to needing auto repairs than their gas counterparts.

 

Whether your car is diesel or gas-powered, if you need auto repair, count on the professionals at Foley Auto & RV Repair in Foley, AL. For over 10 years, they’ve provided Baldwin County with high-quality, quick, and affordable repairs for RVs, motorhomes, and domestic and foreign vehicles. Visit their website to learn more, or call (251) 971-3770 to schedule an appointment today.

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