Are Diesel Vehicles Easy to Start in Winter?
1 Answers
In winter, due to excessively low temperatures, diesel vehicles may fail to start because of sudden temperature drops. Here are solutions for vehicle starting issues: 1. Choose the right fuel grade based on temperature: As temperatures drop, the diesel fuel in the vehicle should be promptly replaced according to the appropriate grade. Similar to gasoline, diesel also has different grades. However, while gasoline grades are determined by octane ratings, diesel grades are classified based on their freezing points. For example, 0-grade diesel has a freezing point of 0°C, meaning it will solidify around this temperature. Although diesel won't solidify before reaching this temperature, it will become more viscous, potentially clogging the fuel system's filter and making it difficult for the engine to receive fuel. Therefore, selecting the right diesel grade should primarily depend on the ambient temperature during use. 2. Proper preheating: Turn the vehicle key to the ON position and wait until the preheating indicator light (coil-shaped) on the dashboard goes off before starting the vehicle. When starting, depress the clutch pedal and limit the starting attempt to no more than 15 seconds (to avoid draining the battery or damaging the starter motor from prolonged cranking). If the vehicle doesn't start normally, repeat the above steps. 3. Correct use of anti-gel additives: In cases of sudden temperature drops, using diesel anti-gel additives is the best solution—convenient and economical. Adding diesel anti-gel additives to the fuel in the correct proportion can effectively prevent gelling and freezing, ensuring smooth vehicle operation. It's advisable to add diesel anti-gel additives in advance to prevent issues before they arise, ensuring preparedness. 4. Pay attention to antifreeze: Besides fuel, also consider lubricants and antifreeze. Low temperatures significantly increase the viscosity of lubricants, reducing adhesion and fluidity, which in turn greatly increases the resistance when starting the engine.
