What are the common reasons for high fuel consumption in diesel vehicles?
2 Answers
Common reasons for high fuel consumption in diesel vehicles include the following: 1. Insufficient tire pressure or aging tires: Low tire pressure increases the contact area between the tires and the ground, leading to greater driving resistance and higher fuel consumption. 2. Clogged air filter: A blocked air filter can reduce air intake, increasing fuel consumption. 3. Insufficient fuel injector pressure: This results in poor diesel atomization. 4. Cylinder wear or air leakage: This lowers cylinder pressure, leading to poor combustion and increased fuel consumption. 5. Winter conditions: Fuel consumption is naturally higher in winter. If winter-specific diesel is not used or the diesel grade is incorrect, it can also increase fuel consumption.
I've been driving a diesel pickup for over a decade, and high fuel consumption is usually related to poor maintenance. Carbon buildup in the fuel injectors causing blockages leads to uneven fuel injection, immediately reducing efficiency; a dirty air filter not being replaced results in insufficient engine air intake, leading to incomplete combustion; an aging turbocharger with inaccurate pressure regulation wastes a lot of fuel. Also, a clogged fuel filter or using low-quality diesel with high moisture and impurities affects the entire fuel injection system. Last time my fuel consumption suddenly increased on a long trip, I found the filter needed replacement, and cleaning the injectors saved me a lot of money. I recommend doing minor maintenance every 5,000 to 6,000 kilometers, especially for the air filter and fuel injection system—diesel vehicles are very sensitive in this regard. Low tire pressure or excessive load can also drag you down; check your tire pressure before long trips and avoid piling all your cargo in the truck. Develop a habit of regular checks to spot and fix issues early, avoiding costly major repairs.
