Colder temperatures usher in diesel engine challenges. The diesel engine offers an assortment of benefits. Having them road-ready during the winter is not one of them. Due to their components, the diesel engine requires higher heat to start. Research has found it is five times more difficult to start a diesel engine in cold weather than in warm.

MUST-Do Actions to Get the Most from Your Diesel Engine in the Winter

• Let the engine warm up a few minutes (5-10) before driving. This allows the oil and lube to move through the engine, protecting the parts from excess wear and tear.
• Use a winter blend of fuel to minimize the risk of fuel gel. Also, top off your gas tank at the end of the day, making freezing or gelling less likely. Keeping full fuel cans in a temperature-controlled space lowers the need to get gas on those extra cold mornings.
• Swap to a lighter-weight oil during the winter to ensure the engine stays lubricated. Change the oil often, as thicker oil moves slower.
• Invest in a block heater or glow plugs and be intentional about using them. However, remember glow plugs need the combustion chamber to heat. If the chamber isn’t warm enough, then it can cause the diesel fuel to gel up and stick to the cylinder heads, creating other mechanical issues.
• Get a second battery and keep it charged. A battery has full power at over 75 degrees but less than half the charge at temperatures below freezing. Having a second battery that is charged and ready will save time should you walk out to a dead battery. You can swap out the non-working one for a battery that is ready to go. If you don’t want to purchase a backup battery, invest in a battery warmer designed to keep the battery at full charge.
• Park out of the weather, ideally in a warm area not exposed to the elements. This can help the engine start-up faster.

DON’T Do This to Your Diesel Engine During Winter

• Forget the fuel filter. This is a common point for the fuel to gel. If freezing or gelling occurs, keep a spare filter on hand so you can replace the filter rather than wait for it to thaw out.
• Forget the fuel additives. You can get the filters, fluids, and other diesel engine items you need from a local AMSOIL dealer, Buy Great Oil. However, do not mix the additives with winterized diesel fuel. Doing so can reverse any benefits gained with the additive. Don’t forget your battery. Keep it free of build-up around the terminals to prevent corrosion.
• Don’t use starting fluid unless your engine is designed for it.
• Do not top off the coolant with plain water, as it will cause the engine or radiator to freeze.

Failing to take proper care of your diesel engine during the winter can cause a myriad of problems. Yes, these tasks take a little extra time, but if it means your vehicle performs well, then it is worth the time invested. Make time now to get the tools and products you need so your diesel engine plus winter weather don’t equal unnecessary headaches.