21 Reasons Why Diesels Are the Best Vehicles

There’s a lot to love about diesels -the rumble, the power, the strength. Honestly, I could go on and on. In fact, I have 21 solid reasons that explain exactly why diesels make the best vehicles. Think you’ll agree?

1. Everything Is Accessible

When you’re elbow-deep in engine work, the last thing you want is a scavenger hunt. Gasoline engines can turn a simple fix into an all-day affair, with vital parts buried like treasure. Diesels? They’re the open book of the engine world -at least, the old ones are. Accessibility is king here, making maintenance and repairs far less of a headache.

2. Versatility On and Off the Road

Think of diesel vehicles as the Swiss Army knife of the automotive world. Tow a trailer, haul heavy loads, dominate on the drag strip, conquer off-road trails, and still cruise reliably to work the next day. Diesel does it all without breaking a sweat.

3. Cleaner Combustion

Diesels play it cool by only compressing air, dodging the carbon monoxide and unburned hydrocarbons that gasoline engines can’t seem to avoid. It’s a cleaner burn that gives the nod to efficiency and the environment.

4. The Eco-Friendly Choice

Imagine a world where spills were less catastrophic. Diesel makes that a bit more realistic. Compared to gasoline, even a significant biodiesel spill is a lesser evil for our aquatic friends and their ecosystems.

5. Unrivaled Power and Torque

Ever wonder why the big rigs use diesel? Torque. Loads of it. Diesel engines deliver the muscle needed for towing and getting off the line with authority. Case in point: Audi’s 3-liter TDI, a beast with torque that leaves gasoline engines envious.

6. Clean and Quiet Operation

Gone are the days of noisy, smoke-belching diesels. Advances in technology and stricter fuel standards have ushered in an era of diesel engines that purr quietly and keep the air clear.

7. Holds Its Value

Diesel vehicles are like fine wine; they age well. With fewer diesels on the market, demand stays high for used models, keeping resale values robust compared to their gasoline and hybrid counterparts.

8. Energy-Rich Fuel

Diesel packs a punch, offering 25%-30% more energy than gasoline. This means better mileage and more power, as seen in the BMW 328d—a diesel that outperforms even the most frugal gasoline sippers.

9. Independent of Electricity

Diesels keep going even when the electric grid says “no.” A mechanically injected diesel engine doesn’t need a spark to keep running, making it resilient and reliable, especially in emergencies.

10. Non-Interference

With no ignition system to speak of, diesel engines play well with electronic devices. Radios, communication gear, even pacemakers—nothing gets scrambled by a diesel’s operation.

11. Easy Repair Solutions

Need a fix? Diesel repair kits are your friend. Whether it’s a major overhaul or a minor tweak, finding the right parts and tools is straightforward, thanks to a well-supported supply chain.

12. Fuel Availability

While electric vehicle owners map out charging stations, diesel drivers have it easy. Diesel fuel’s long history with trucks means it’s readily available at over half of all gas stations in the U.S.

13. Dominance in Racing

The proof is in the podiums. Since 2006, diesel-powered beasts have clinched victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, proving diesel’s might, endurance, and efficiency on the world stage.

14. Slower Depreciation

Your investment in a diesel vehicle pays off over time. Thanks to their durability and efficiency, diesels depreciate at a snail’s pace compared to gasoline vehicles, ensuring you get more bang for your buck in the long run.

15. Mechanical Ease

Diesel engines ditch the complexity for straightforward mechanical genius. This simplicity means fewer things that can go wrong and, when they do, easier fixes that won’t leave you stranded.

16. Rolling Coal

Rolling coal may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but for those who revel in it, diesel vehicles offer that unique capability. It’s a statement, a bold declaration of diesel pride that turns heads and starts conversations.

17. The Unmistakable Diesel Rumble

There’s music, and then there’s the diesel rumble—a sound so distinct, so visceral, it’s like the vehicle’s beating heart. For those who prefer their ride with a side of auditory muscle, diesel delivers a soundtrack no gasoline engine can match.

18. Looks Mean In the Best Way

Diesel trucks aren’t just about performance; they’ve got the looks to back it up. With a design that screams strength and dominance, these beasts on wheels make a statement wherever they go, embodying the essence of raw power.

19. Built for the Big-Handed

The generous size of diesel engines is a boon for those with larger hands, making maintenance tasks less of a finicky ordeal. The spacious engine bay allows for easier maneuvering, ensuring that repairs and part replacements are straightforward.

20. Diagnostics Made Simple

While it’s often easy to spot issues with diesel engines by sight, the availability of diagnostic software adds another layer of convenience. Tools like Caterpillar ET or Cummins Insite bridge the gap between mechanic know-how and digital diagnostics, making problem-solving a tech-savvy breeze.

21. Listening as a Diagnostic Tool

The distinct sounds of a diesel engine aren’t just for show; they’re a mechanic’s ally. Unusual noises become clues, leading savvy owners to early detection of issues like low oil levels or the need for injector lubrication. It’s like the engine is speaking directly to those who know how to listen.