The 5 Most Common Diesel Engine Problems

Don’t Ignore These Signs

The check engine light in your Ford Powerstroke diesel truck just came on, and you’re not sure what to do. Your head floods with questions including, “Where do I go?” and “What could it be?”. Take a breath and let the diesel repair experts at Blueline Automotive answer all your questions. Light-duty diesel owners in Rogue Valley know our ASE-Certified technicians have the knowledge and tools to quickly fix the problem and get you back on the road. Here are five of the more common diesel truck repair problems our team sees:

1. Difficulty Starting

Your diesel engine should start quickly after a few cranks. If you experience difficulties starting your truck, it’s time for a diesel repair service. Because a diesel engine requires less fuel to generate power, a fuel or air compression system issue can make your vehicle hard to start. You may also have a glow plug problem. To avoid this common problem, come in for routine maintenance.

2. Black Smoke

You shouldn’t see excess black exhaust coming out of the pipes. This can indicate an out-of-balance air and fuel mixture or a problem with the EGR valve or turbocharger.

3. Glow Plug Failure

Cold weather and diesel engines do not play well together. Glow plugs, which look like spark plugs, operate like tiny heaters in the pre-chamber or combustion chamber to help get your engine started. Like a spark plug, glow plugs wear down, and you’ll need to schedule diesel repair services to have them replaced.

4. Excessive Noise

Diesel engines are naturally noisy. But if you notice excessive noise or noises that aren’t normal, there may be a problem with the fuel system. It may be time to have our technicians clean the fuel injectors and check them for clogging.

5. Oil Oxidation

Motor oil can oxidize if the air is introduced into the oil system. A diesel engine intakes air to start and run and intakes air into the air combustion chamber. When an oil leak occurs, air can be introduced into the motor oil, oxidizing it. In turn, you end up with performance issues and engine damage. Schedule routine oil changes to ensure your system is operating at its peak and to avoid diesel repair services.

To sidestep the five diesel repair services listed above, follow your manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule. Routine oil changes, DPF cleaning, diesel intake cleaning, and EGR valve cleaning will go a long way to saving you time and money. Located in White City, Oregon, the team at Blueline Automotive is here to help with all your diesel repair and maintenance services. Give us a call!