There are plenty of good reasons to buy a diesel truck, but there are some downsides to owning a diesel as well. It’s always a good idea to look at the pros and cons before you hand over the dough.
The number one reason people buy a diesel pickup truck is for the power you get in a diesel engine. If you want a heavy duty truck for hauling loads or pulling a trailer, a diesel has advantage over a gasoline engine. That’s why you’ll see a diesel pickup under most fifth-wheels or sitting on construction sites.
The second biggest reason for buying anything with a diesel engine is the long life. A typical gas engine may run for 300,000 to 500,000 miles. A diesel, on the other hand, will generally give you substantially longer life. Add the long life to the fuel economy and it makes a gas engine seem like a pretty poor bargain.
So, with all this going for it, why wouldn’t you want to buy a diesel truck? Well, there are a few negatives, and most of them have dollar signs attached to them. A diesel pickup will usually cost you a little more than an equivalent with a gas engine. The price per gallon for diesel fuel is going to be more than gasoline (but your mileage per gallon should out weigh this negative). A diesel uses quite a bit more oil in the engine than the gasoline engine, too. An oil change will cost significantly more and good quality approved lubricants with superior filtration can provide extended drain intervals.
You’ll get a slower take off with your diesel than the pickup sitting in the next lane and they’re meant for long hauls more than cruising around town. Stop and go driving can actually be significantly harmful to your diesel. If you rarely put your truck to hard work, a gasoline engine may be a better choice. Sub-zero weather and diesels can be a problem too and The Diesel Service Centre can provide you with options ranging from engine/fuel heaters to OE approved fuel conditioner like the Stanadyne Performance Formula.
If you’re looking for a heavy duty, long-lasting truck, a diesel is a good choice. Quick spins to the grocery store and back? Get yourself a small gas pickup with good mileage. That’s all you’ll need.