Diesel cars tend to offer better fuel economy, and we all know that. That’s what every driver is looking for, right? But the question today is: do diesel cars need to be driven daily to stay in good shape? Well, people have made different statements when asked this question. This leaves many of us confused about what is true. For those who still don’t have an answer as to why diesel cars require daily operation, here it is. The answer is no.
Here’s a better explanation!
Do Diesel Cars Require Daily Driving? Here’s the Answer!
Every driver is curious about this. If this question had been asked years ago, the answer would have been yes, or let’s say a big yes. Now, the scenario has changed. Let’s see what has changed it over the years.
Development of CRDI Engines
It was after the development of CRDI engines that it became unnecessary to operate diesel cars daily. Before that, the issue occurred when starting the cold engine. The engine took time to warm up the fuel. This energy consumed to heat the fuel took time, making it difficult to start diesel cars on time. Now, with CRDI engines, there is practically no need to run diesel cars daily. CRDI stands for Common Rail Direct Injection. This allows direct injection of fuel into the engine via a single common line. That’s why it’s no longer necessary to run your diesel car regularly these days. Now, no one will wonder whether diesel cars require daily operation or not.
Rigid Steel Lines
There was a problem with diesel cars in the past. Back then, fuel lines were prone to air ingress, which could immobilize the vehicle. If the cars weren’t driven for more than ten days, they would simply stop or create a potential error when starting the car. Nowadays, diesel cars have more rigid steel lines, meaning your diesel car won’t stop no matter how many days it sits idle in the garage.
Daily Starting Is Not Necessary
Vehicles and their engines have evolved tremendously in recent years. There was a time when daily starting was necessary to maintain the car’s good condition. Now, there are only a few things to do with the vehicle. Even experts believe this is one of the most common misconceptions that needs to be broken now.
Modern diesel vehicles do not require constant attention. Use it when you want and keep it in the garage when you don’t need it. Just let your vehicle enjoy parking mode, and it won’t be affected, as most of us think. Surely, it won’t get stuck! Just keep in mind some expert maintenance tips that you can also read online.
Conclusion
Our official answer on this is that diesel cars do not require daily use, but they benefit from regular use. Diesel engines are known for their robustness and durability, and they are often preferred by drivers who travel long distances or have high mileage requirements. Unlike gasoline engines, diesel engines do not have spark plugs that can foul or require regular maintenance. However, there are a few benefits to driving a diesel car regularly:
Battery Maintenance
Like any vehicle, diesel cars have a 12-volt battery that powers various electrical systems. If a diesel car remains unused for an extended period, the battery may discharge, making it difficult to start the engine. Regular use ensures the battery stays charged.
Fuel Quality
Diesel fuel can degrade over time, especially if it sits in the fuel tank for a long time. Regular use helps keep the fuel fresh by consuming and replenishing it regularly.
DPF Regeneration
Most modern diesel cars are equipped with a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) to reduce emissions. The DPF traps and burns harmful particles, but this process requires the car to reach and maintain certain driving conditions, typically achieved during regular highway driving or at higher speeds. If a diesel car is only used for short trips or remains inactive for too long, the DPF may not regenerate properly, leading to potential issues.