When we say we are a full-service auto shop in Oak Grove, we mean it here at Bird Automotive. We service and repair both gasoline and diesel engines. If you drive a diesel automobile, you can count on us to repair the engine when it needs it. In fact, there are a handful of repairs that we perform all the time. Let’s talk about the common diesel engine problems we fix below.
Difficulty Starting the Vehicle
It’s a well-known fact that diesel engines are harder to start than gasoline engines. This being said, you should not be having extreme difficulties getting your diesel automobile to fire up. If you are, there may be a problem with the glow plugs or the vehicle is overdue for some much-needed maintenance.
Loss of Engine Power
If your diesel engine keeps losing power, you may have a fuel-delivery problem in the engine. For example, if the fuel injectors or the fuel filter is clogged, the engine is going to become fuel-starved and lose power. Other unrelated problems that can cause power loss include problems with the throttle linkage and excessive lubrication in the engine.
Engine Damage Caused by Contaminated Fuel
Diesel engines can be damaged by contaminated fuel because diesel fuel can get contaminated rather easily. The reason why is that this fuel is thicker than gasoline, so it hangs on to contaminants. Water can get into diesel fuel and so can soot or glycol. These contaminants can damage the diesel engine.
Excess Black Exhaust
It’s not uncommon for a diesel engine to release a tiny puff of black exhaust when you accelerate. If you see excess black exhaust, however, you may be driving with a broken EGR valve or faulty turbocharger. These things can cause an increase of fuel in the combustion chamber as can broken fuel injectors or a clogged air filter. As the engine burns away the excess fuel, it releases black exhaust.
Oxidized Motor Oil
If your diesel automobile has not been driven in a long time, it’s possible that the oil has oxidized. Oxidation causes the oil to fill with air bubbles that can damage the engine. As such, if your diesel automobile has been sitting around, have it towed to our shop so we can change the oil.
Finally, Bird Automotive in Oak Grove, MO, can investigate any strange noises coming from your diesel engine. For example, you should not hear things like knocking, squealing, or grinding. If you do, have your diesel automobile towed to our shop to avoid additional engine damage.
