Does a diesel vehicle with excessive exhaust require a major overhaul?

[PatrickFitz]

Diesel vehicles with excessive exhaust do not require a major overhaul. Below is an introduction to related aspects of diesel vehicles: Principle: The harmful substances in diesel vehicle exhaust are mainly nitrogen oxides and particulates. Technical measures can be employed within the engine to reduce particulate emissions, leaving nitrogen oxides as the primary component in the exhaust. By injecting urea into the exhaust after-treatment device, the urea decomposes into ammonia at high temperatures. Under the action of a catalyst, the ammonia reacts with nitrogen oxides to produce harmless nitrogen and water. This device is called the SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) after-treatment system. Urea Tank: There is a dedicated urea tank in the vehicle where urea is stored. As long as the vehicle is running, urea will be consumed. Therefore, it is necessary to replenish the urea in a timely manner. Generally, about 4 liters of urea are consumed per 100 liters of diesel fuel.

[Scarlett]

I also experienced heavy black smoke from the exhaust when I used to drive a diesel car, which worried me, so I took it to the repair shop for inspection. The mechanic said it was caused by clogged fuel injectors or a dirty air filter leading to incomplete combustion, and that cleaning them would suffice without needing a major overhaul. However, if the smoke is white or blue, it might indicate oil leakage from the turbocharger or severe piston ring wear, which would then require considering an engine overhaul. The key is not to guess blindly but to promptly consult a professional technician for diagnosis; they can accurately identify the cause by reading the fault codes with a computer. Regular maintenance during daily driving, such as changing the oil and checking the DPF system to prevent carbon buildup, is crucial. Excessive exhaust not only increases fuel consumption but also pollutes the environment. Delaying repairs can worsen vehicle damage and even affect driving safety, so it's best to fix it early.

[DelVivienne]

Excessive exhaust odor is a safety hazard that deserves attention and should not be overlooked. Abnormal exhaust in diesel vehicles is often caused by turbocharger issues or clogged EGR valves, leading to reduced combustion efficiency. Driving for a short time may not be a problem, but long-term neglect can result in severe carbon buildup and engine performance degradation. If you notice a pungent smell or see thick smoke, immediately seek a technician's inspection—don’t delay, as stalling on the road or triggering a fire could lead to major trouble. At the dealership, they’ll conduct comprehensive testing to pinpoint the cause. In most cases, only minor parts need replacement or cleaning, avoiding major repairs. However, if core components are damaged, costly overhauls may be necessary. Safety first—protect yourself and others by addressing the issue promptly.

[ODamian]

The cost of repairing excessive exhaust in diesel vehicles depends on the severity of the issue. A major overhaul will definitely be expensive, so it's better to start with minor repairs to save money. Common causes include a clogged DPF filter—cleaning it can cost a few hundred yuan—or faulty fuel injectors, where replacing a new component may cost around a thousand yuan. However, if the diagnosis reveals worn piston rings in the engine, replacing the entire core could cost tens of thousands, which may not be cost-effective. My advice is not to panic—take it directly to the repair shop and let the mechanic diagnose the issue before deciding. Ordinary exhaust problems don’t always require major repairs. Pay attention to fuel quality and avoid using inferior diesel to prevent carbon buildup, which is a money-saving strategy.