Why is my diesel engine losing power?
Common symptoms why diesel engines feel slower and less responsive as time goes by
Have you ever had that feeling that the SUV, pick-up, or van you’ve been driving doesn’t feel as powerful as before?
Yes, there is such a thing as wear and tear, and some power loss is to be expected, but what if your diesel vehicle feels much weaker? Overtaking becomes a little more difficult, you have to step more to make it on an inclined ramp, and you notice quite a bit more smoke in your rearview when you do so.
There is a way to get it back, but first, you’ll need to know what may be going on.
Clogged filters
When a driver suspects power loss in a diesel vehicle, the primary thing they need to check is the filters. The air and fuel filters are the two main culprits. The dirty, dusty, and polluted air we are exposed to daily strains the air cleaner, while lower-grade (read: budget) diesel fuel tends to shorten the lifespan of fuel filters.
The filters on any vehicle are consumable items but are also easily replaceable if you want to do a little DIY. Inspect the filters to see if they are still optimal. If already worn or clogged, replace as needed. The oil filter, it’s a more intensive job and will likely require professional help for an oil change.
Turbo and fuel system problems
There is also a possibility that a slight problem exists within your turbo system or fuel delivery system. While it is far more significant and complex than changing filters, these problems are very easy to figure out. For one, the check engine light will probably be on. But if it isn’t just step on the throttle and if you notice that the response of the engine is unusually long, that’s your indicator.
When it comes to a boost leak you’ll hear it right away, and when it comes to a fuel delivery problem, your vehicle will feel like it’s got the hiccups. Bring it to a professional shop for a proper diagnostic, and address the problem directly.
Compression problems
Diesel engines rely on compression to run; that’s why there’s no sparkplug. If a diesel engine has compression issues, then it’s a problem that needs sorting out right away. The most common causes of compression problems are bad timing, worn piston rings, or even a busted head gasket.
The signs are easy to spot, as a diesel engine that has compression issues has a hard time starting and will feel very rough.
Clogged DPF
If your vehicle is fitted with a DPF, then that is something that needs attention. DPF stands for diesel particulate filter, and it’s fitted in the exhaust system to catch pollutant particles for cleaner emissions.
Over time, the DPF can get clogged with dirt and will need purging and/or a thorough cleaning. A clogged DPF will result in a loss of power, worse fuel economy, lots of unwanted exhaust (to the point your vehicle may fail emissions tests) so on and so forth.
Excessive engine deposits
The easiest problem to deal with is engine deposits. Over time, carbon deposits form on critical surfaces inside the engine, such as the valves, pistons, and combustion chambers. The traditional way to sort out the problem is to open up the engine and clean it manually, but there is another method, one that involves no hassle or extra effort.
That method is to fill up with Caltex Power Diesel.
As you run your engine and drive, Caltex Power Diesel works its magic inside your engine by dissolving and clearing these harmful carbon deposits. It achieves that because it includes a double dose of Techron D; a special formulation that cleans and maintains the insides of your engine.
When you use Caltex Power Diesel with Techron D, you are literally maintaining your engine simply by using it every day, preventing deposits from robbing you of the power your right foot deserves. That means easier overtaking, quicker acceleration, smoother running, cleaner emissions, and better fuel economy for the long haul.
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Yes, diesel engines do experience wear and tear, but with a bit more attention paid to the symptoms and a tankful of Caltex Power Diesel with Techron D, you can ensure that your SUV, pick-up truck or van is always performing at its peak.
SOURCES:
https://www.allbaydiesel.com/what-causes-a-diesel-engine-to-lose-power-while-driving/
https://www.ogsmechanics.com/diesel-cars-why-they-lose-power-over-time/
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