Have an after hours question or need a quote? We'll get right back to you!
Store HoursToday: 08:00 am - 05:00 pm Closed Now

98% of customers
would refer us to friends

4.95       321 reviews

4.95 stars - based on 321 reviews
auto & fleet Mechanic

You’ve almost made it through the hot days of summer with your diesel vehicle. But all of a sudden, it is getting harder and harder to start your diesel engine, but yet you dread having to face a diesel repair. Did you know that hot temperatures can present a different set of problems than cold temperatures when it comes to diesel engines. For example, cold weather requires a different grade of fuel, the glow plugs could accumulate a lot of carbon and go bad, and the oil can become cold and thick.

So why can a diesel engine be hard to start in hot temperatures? The following may be some issues that are causing starting problems:

  • Fuel Delivery
    • The injector timing may need to be adjusted.
    • There could be air in the fuel from leaks in fuel lines or pumps.
    • The fuel filter may be clogged. This filter should be changed between every 20,000 to 40,000 miles, depending on your driving conditions.
    • It may be time to replace the fuel pump.
  • Fuel Injectors – If you notice a rough idle, loss of power, and white smoke in the exhaust, your injectors might be dirty. Black smoke in the exhaust could indicate a leaky injector.
  • Contaminated Fuel – Diesel fuel is an ideal environment for some bacteria. The warmer the temperatures outside, the faster the bacteria grows. If you notice a sulfuric odor or a black or green coating in the fuel tank, drain and clean it with a biocide. The fuel lines and injection pump may also need to be treated. The next time you refill the fuel tank, add a little more biocide to prevent bacteria from forming.
  • Sludge deposits – Deposits from dirty oil have built up in the engine block and lines.

Tip to Remember:  Don’t guess what could be the cause of your starting problems, but ask your certified diesel repair technician to scan your engine for trouble codes that can help pinpoint the root cause. Some diesel repairs may be simple and inexpensive, such as replacing a dirty filter. Other repairs can be costly and time-consuming, such as replacing injectors.

Wondering what can cause a diesel engine not to start? Contact our ASE Certified technicians at Auto & Fleet Mechanic for more information about diesel repairs and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves residents in Modesto, CA, and the surrounding area.

Pin It
Wondering what can cause a diesel engine not to start? The experts at Auto & Fleet Mechanic can help you with needed diesel repairs.

You’ve almost made it through the hot days of summer with your diesel vehicle. But all of a sudden, it is getting harder and harder to start your diesel engine, but yet you dread having to face a diesel repair. Did you know that hot temperatures can present a different set of problems than cold temperatures when it comes to diesel engines. For example, cold weather requires a different grade of fuel, the glow plugs could accumulate a lot of carbon and go bad, and the oil can become cold and thick.

So why can a diesel engine be hard to start in hot temperatures? The following may be some issues that are causing starting problems:

  • Fuel Delivery
    • The injector timing may need to be adjusted.
    • There could be air in the fuel from leaks in fuel lines or pumps.
    • The fuel filter may be clogged. This filter should be changed between every 20,000 to 40,000 miles, depending on your driving conditions.
    • It may be time to replace the fuel pump.
  • Fuel Injectors – If you notice a rough idle, loss of power, and white smoke in the exhaust, your injectors might be dirty. Black smoke in the exhaust could indicate a leaky injector.
  • Contaminated Fuel – Diesel fuel is an ideal environment for some bacteria. The warmer the temperatures outside, the faster the bacteria grows. If you notice a sulfuric odor or a black or green coating in the fuel tank, drain and clean it with a biocide. The fuel lines and injection pump may also need to be treated. The next time you refill the fuel tank, add a little more biocide to prevent bacteria from forming.
  • Sludge deposits – Deposits from dirty oil have built up in the engine block and lines.

Tip to Remember:  Don’t guess what could be the cause of your starting problems, but ask your certified diesel repair technician to scan your engine for trouble codes that can help pinpoint the root cause. Some diesel repairs may be simple and inexpensive, such as replacing a dirty filter. Other repairs can be costly and time-consuming, such as replacing injectors.

Wondering what can cause a diesel engine not to start? Contact our ASE Certified technicians at Auto & Fleet Mechanic for more information about diesel repairs and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves residents in Modesto, CA, and the surrounding area.

Pin It
Judi Harvey
Auto & Fleet MechanicModesto Auto Repair

$$$

5160 Pentecost Drive #A, Modesto, CA 95356209-543-7575[email protected]
Mon:08:00am - 05:00pm
Tue:08:00am - 05:00pm
Wed:08:00am - 05:00pm
Thu:08:00am - 05:00pm
Fri:08:00am - 05:00pm
Sat:Closed
Sun:Closed
Facebook YouTube Google Yelp
american express, mastercard, visa, discover, cash, checks, debit
Store Info
Store Hours
Get Direction