Diesel engines have seen extensive use in Europe and Asia for many years. They haven’t been as common in the Reno area because of the high sulfur content in our diesel fuel. But the United States government is now mandating lower sulfur content, as a result, we are going to see more diesel-fueled vehicles on the road in the Reno area, especially in passenger cars and SUV’s.

Diesels are popular in Nevada because they get better fuel economy than gas-powered engines. They also last longer. Modern diesel engines are quiet and powerful. Black smoke too, is a thing of the past for diesel engines

Diesels don’t produce any more pollutants than gasoline engines. The pollution standards for diesel-powered vehicles are as strict in Nevada as for other vehicles.

Also, diesel engines can run on biodiesel fuels as well as fossil fuels. Vegetable oil or cellulosic waste like wood chips and sawdust can be used to produce diesel fuel. In Nevada, we may soon see biodiesel produced from algae. These fuel sources will lessen Reno drivers’ dependence on fossil fuels and may even become truly renewable and sustainable.

The performance of diesel-powered vehicles is equal to that of other passenger vehicles. Most people don’t notice a difference in driving one or the other. If you haul heavy loads or tow a trailer around Nevada, however, the diesel is a definite improvement.

So, you may be asking, if diesels are so great, why don’t all Reno people drive them? Surely there are disadvantages you haven’t told me about. That’s true. Diesel engines are heavier than gas engines, and they cost more in Nevada. A higher purchase price partially offsets the better fuel economy of diesel engines.

Because of higher fuel prices, diesel engines used to be more expensive to drive in Reno. But now, with higher volatility in the prices of both gasoline and diesel fuel in Nevada, that cost difference is less definitive. Whether a diesel or gas engine is more expensive for Nevada drivers depends now on the current price of fuel and how far you drive.

Diesel-powered vehicles have a high resale value in the Reno area, and the costs of owning and operating a diesel vs. a gas-powered vehicle in Nevada becomes a real toss-up.

Preventive auto maintenance for diesel vehicles has become similar to gas-fueled vehicles in recent years. The main difference between the two engines is diesel engines require cleaner fuel, air, and oil, making their filters are more expensive than filters for gasoline engines. Diesel engine air filters must be changed more frequently as well.

The costs for car care and repairs in Reno are similar. True, the air filters cost more and must be changed more frequently, but the cost is offset by diesel engines having a much longer lifespan than gasoline engines. So, if you are the type of owner who prefers to hang on to a vehicle for a long time, you will be more than rewarded with a diesel engine.

So if you have been looking for Reno auto advice on whether to switch to a diesel vehicle or stay with a gas-powered one, then we hope this helps. As to which type of vehicle is better depends on the driver and their driving habits. Knowing the facts, you can make an informed choice based on your own priorities and needs.