There are numerous reasons more and more vehicle buyers are choosing diesel engine options. With diesel engines taking the number one spot for most efficient internal combustion, these engines have several benefits to offer regarding performance. But all vehicles require maintenance, especially when it comes to the diesel filtration system. Diesel owners may not know exactly when their fuel filter should be replaced, so let’s take a look at a few common warning signs it may be time for a replacement.
Difficulty starting: One of the first signs that something is wrong in a vehicle is if it has difficulty starting or won’t start at all. While there are certainly several reasons an engine may have trouble starting, a blockage in the filtration system is a common cause. Fortunately, replacing the filter is a quick fix. If an engine has trouble starting, vehicle owners should address the problem quickly or they could deal with a completely dead engine — or one that dies in the middle of the road.
Shaky ride at low speeds: Once a vehicle starts and gets going, it usually drives just fine. But if a driver is noticing their vehicle is struggling at low speeds, like when accelerating out of a driveway or after a stop sign, this could mean the filter is clogged. If the fuel distribution is uneven and slow, the vehicle could be struggling to get enough fuel to accelerate at first, but then adjusts at higher speeds.
Idling is rough: When a vehicle is stopped, idling should be relatively smooth. If the engine idles roughly and feels shaky, this could mean the filter is clogged. If the diesel fuel pumps can’t get enough fuel through, it could result in decreased flow and a low idle RPM. Seeking help from diesel fuel filters suppliers and getting a replacement filter should fix the issue and allow the vehicle to idle smoothly.
All vehicles should come with a maintenance guide telling owners when certain parts should be replaced. And while most diesel fuel filters should be replaced every 10,000 to 25,000 miles, it could vary depending on how frequently the vehicle is used and how well it’s maintained. So diesel drivers should keep these warning signs in mind so they can know when to invest in a replacement diesel filtration system.