How To Survive Winter With An Older Diesel Vehicle Without Issues
Winter brings a specific set of challenges for drivers who own older diesel vehicles. The primary adversary during the cold months is the chemical composition of the fuel itself. Paraffin wax naturally present in diesel begins to crystallize when temperatures drop significantly. This process turns the liquid into a cloudy and thick substance that struggles to flow through the lines.
The crystals formed by the paraffin can quickly clog the pores of the fuel filter. Once this filtration component is blocked the engine is starved of the energy it needs to run. The vehicle might start for a brief moment but will likely stall immediately afterward. This situation leaves many drivers stranded and requires warming the car to dissolve the crystals.
Another critical factor is the presence of water within the fuel system. Water is heavier than diesel and settles at the lowest points of the tank or filter housing. This water turns into ice when the temperature falls below freezing and blocks the flow of fuel. Changing the fuel filter before winter is a smart maintenance move to remove any trapped moisture.
Service stations adjust their fuel supply to match the season by offering winter diesel. This standard fuel typically offers protection down to negative fifteen or twenty degrees Celsius. Premium versions of diesel often contain superior additives that extend this protection even further. It is wise to fill up with these higher quality fuels when extreme cold is in the forecast.
Drivers can also purchase standalone anti-gel additives from auto parts stores. These products are poured directly into the tank before refueling to ensure proper mixing. You should always keep a bottle of this additive in the trunk just in case you encounter extremely low temperatures. It is a cost effective way to prevent the waxing process from disabling your vehicle.
Avoid the outdated advice of mixing a small percentage of gasoline into your diesel tank. This practice was common decades ago but can be catastrophic for vehicles manufactured in the last twenty years. Gasoline reduces the lubricating properties of diesel and can destroy sensitive high pressure injection pumps. The cost of repairing the fuel injection system far outweighs the price of proper winter additives.
Mechanical components like glow plugs and the battery require special attention before the frost arrives. Glow plugs are essential for heating the combustion chamber to ensure the fuel ignites under compression. A weak battery will fail to turn the engine over because the cold thickens the engine oil. Ensuring these parts are in top condition allows for a stress free winter driving experience.
Let us know what steps you take to prepare your diesel car for winter in the comments.
