The diesel vs. gas debate is as strong as ever. Both camps will argue their points ad nauseam, but is there an actual answer to the question? Well, yes and no. Not all diesel vehicles and gas vehicles are created equal. Motorists have needs, and the best automobile type for those needs depends on many, many factors. As a vehicle owner, you must compare fuel efficiency, hauling and towing capacities, and maintenance requirements to find the best fit for your needs. Keep reading for a simple breakdown of the pros and cons of each.
Diesel Vehicles
They are known as workhorses in many sectors. Diesel engines exist in commercial vehicles, heavy-duty trucks, light-duty trucks, and passenger automobiles.
Longevity and Durability
In general, diesel engines use more robust engine components due to the higher compression ratios required for combustion. These durable, heavy-duty engines can operate under more demanding working conditions (for longer periods) than their gasoline-engine counterparts. It is common for diesel engines to operate reliably for several hundred thousand miles.
Fuel Efficiency
The fuel efficiency of a diesel engine can vary between light-duty and heavy-duty vehicles. Diesel engines are known to perform best when heavily loaded and for longer distances. For example, a heavily loaded diesel vehicle usually returns a higher mpg than a heavily loaded gas vehicle.
Fuel prices can certainly affect your vehicle’s efficiency. In the past, diesel fuel was the cheapest option by a large margin. However, diesel fuel can be the same price (or higher) per gallon as gasoline, depending on the time of year and your location.
Hauling and Towing
Diesel engines provide a lot of torque at low rpms, which is vital when towing heavy loads. Diesel truck engines also have an integrated exhaust braking system. This system helps control the truck and trailer on steep declines or in stop-and-go traffic. The exhaust brake slows the engine by creating back pressure from the turbo, slowing the vehicle’s speed. In addition, this extra braking method reduces premature wear on the brake system. Finally, it helps reduce brake overheating.
Auto Maintenance & Repairs
Most diesel engines utilize more specialized components, filters, and fluids than most gas engines. They also have a larger oil reserve, which means routine oil changes cost a bit more. Therefore, diesel auto maintenance can be more complex. However, since diesel engines run at a lower rpm, they experience less wear & tear on the moving components. Less wear on components means replacements are required less frequently under ideal operating conditions.
Diesel Vehicle Performance Summary
There are many benefits to owning a diesel vehicle, but there are a few drawbacks as well. Let’s look at the highlights:
The Pros
- Very durable, and they run forever
- Most fuel efficient when heavily loaded and traveling long distances
- Excellent for towing heavy loads
- Requires fewer replacement parts
- Retains a higher resale value (over equivalent gasoline options)
The Cons
- It can be more expensive to purchase (compared to equivalent gasoline options)
- It may cost more in fuel if infrequently used or only driven for short trips
- Routine maintenance can be expensive
Gas Vehicles
Gas vehicles are evolving each year, with stricter emissions regulations and hybrid options becoming the norm. Let’s look at the common attributes of all-gas vehicles currently in use today.
Longevity and Durability
With proper routine maintenance, gas vehicles can last a long time. However, because gas engines run at higher rpm, their components wear out faster than those of diesel engines. The lighter weight of the gas engine helps with size limitations (think of the tiny ‘economy’ cars), but it comes with the cost of more frequent repairs to worn parts. The need for frequent maintenance and replacement parts tends to reduce the longevity of gasoline engines.
Fuel Efficiency and Power Output
The lighter-weight gas engine provides greater fuel efficiency on light-duty vehicles and around-town driving. The gas engine also has fewer emissions components than a diesel engine, allowing vehicles to be considerably smaller and lighter overall. This means more power output in the short term over a similarly sized diesel vehicle. Your driving needs and style may benefit from a gas vehicle if you make frequent short trips and never haul or tow heavy loads.
Auto Maintenance & Repairs
Routine auto maintenance on gas vehicles is pretty straightforward. Many people change their own oil, replace their own filters, and perform their own tire maintenance. There are fewer components to service in a gas vehicle, and the parts are usually less expensive than those in a diesel vehicle. Unless you drive a high-end, high-performance automobile, you can expect routine maintenance and replacement parts to be less expensive than those for a diesel. Of course, you may need to perform auto maintenance and replace components more frequently, which can add up over time.
Gas Vehicle Performance Summary
There are many benefits to owning a gas vehicle, but it also has a few drawbacks. Let’s look at the highlights:
The Pros
- Generally durable with proper maintenance
- May be cheaper as an initial investment/purchase
- Most fuel efficient when driving short distances without a heavy load
- Auto maintenance is easy to DIY and is less expensive (compared to the equivalent diesel option)
The Cons
- Resale value may be lower than a diesel option
- It may cost more over time in maintenance and repairs
- Not the best choice for towing and hauling heavy loads
Finding The Best Vehicle
When comparing diesel vs. gas, choosing the best car depends on your needs and expectations. There are pros and cons to all types of vehicles. Your best bet is to weigh your options based on how you plan to use your vehicle and stay within your budget. It would help if you viewed the initial expenditures and maintenance costs over the entire time you plan to own your vehicle.
Getting The Best Service in Kirkland, WA
A reliable auto service station is key to maintaining your vehicle. Scheduling regular auto maintenance and making necessary repairs will increase a vehicle’s longevity. So whether you have a diesel vehicle or a gas vehicle, bring it to Fisher’s Auto Service for comprehensive service. Our qualified technicians have extensive training in all foreign and domestic makes. Visit us online or call us at (425) 823-4441 to make an appointment.