There was a time when the majority of vehicles ran on diesel rather than gasoline. Although diesel engines are indeed more efficient than their counterpart, their emission has been determined to cause serious respiratory and other health problems. In Utah, diesel engine lovers can try some ways to reduce emissions from their vehicles.
Diesel is not just about fuel efficiency
A person who periodically goes to a diesel engine repair shop in Salt Lake City, Utah can give several reasons why diesel-powered vehicles are more appealing. In the late ’70s, a lot of compact vehicles running in diesel engines have been sold in the U.S. Over the years, vehicle manufacturers have dramatically improved these robust vehicles. Newer models of diesel vehicles are quieter, have minor vibrations, and releases cleaner emissions, unlike their older brothers. Thanks to alternative and renewable biodiesel fuel, diesel engine emissions have become cleaner, which is comparable to gasoline emissions.
There is a good reason why diesel vehicles are costly than their petrol counterparts. A diesel engine can last for decades; it rarely needs preventative maintenance, making it an ideal commuter vehicle. Forget about periodic ignition maintenance; diesel engines don’t have spark plugs.
Ways diesel vehicle owners can do to reduce emissions
Because diesel engines are tough, a lot of old vehicle models are still functional today, but they can release harmful emissions. To keep diesel emissions low, vehicle owners may consider visiting a diesel engine repair shop regularly to replace engine oil, filters, gaskets, and coolants.
Vehicle owners should always ensure that all the tires are properly inflated and that the tank has sufficient amount of fuel, especially during long drives. Failure to do so can result in more filthy emissions as the engine exerts more power to run the vehicle.
Drivers may also consider these simple tips to possibly help reduce harmful emissions: 1) Pre-heat the engine for several minutes before starting; 2) Turn off the AC, lights, and other electrical devices while starting the vehicle; 3) Free some load on the starter motor by stepping on the clutch pedal; and 4) Keep revolution per minute (RPM) around 2,000 to 3,000 to maintain engine efficiency.
Emissions are a big problem in diesel vehicles
Unburned hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, or particulate matters are the common pollutants present in diesel emissions. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), diesel emission exposure can trigger serious respiratory and cardiovascular problems that may lead to frequent hospitalizations or even premature deaths. Diesel emissions damage vegetation and are also known for producing hazardous acid rains that contaminate water sources and cause damage to properties.
EPA is serious in penalizing Clean Air Act violators. Just recently, the federal agency made Fiat Chrysler Automobiles settle $800 million for using a type of software in diesel vehicles to pass emission lab tests. EPA’s Andrew Wheeler said that the software deceived consumers and the government.
Diesel vehicles are here to stay. Diesel appeal to individuals who love unusually big engines and power. Although their emissions are hazardous to health and the environment, there are doable ways for owners to make their combustion cleaner and more efficient.
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