The Most Common Diesel Engine Problems

Troubleshooting problems with diesel engines can be daunting, especially when you’re unfamiliar with the machinery. This guide explores the most common problems with diesel engines, so you can be prepared if you encounter difficulties with diesel engine parts.

The most common problems with diesel compression engines can be split into two categories: issue-specific and part-specific.

Diesel engine overheating

The number one problem with diesel engines is overheating, which is caused when an engine is pushed too hard. This can give rise to a whole host of negative side effects, including:

- Damage to the bearings and crankshaft

- Pistons expanding and scraping against the cylinder walls, crushing the head gasket

- Cylinder heads swelling, distorting and breaking

Oil leakage

Oil leaks stem largely from issues with diesel engine parts, such as aged seals and gaskets, which no longer work effectively. If left unattended, oil leaks can cause serious problems. They pose an environmental threat, a serious fire risk, and can result in engine failure.

Oil supply

Oil supply problems are predominantly due to incorrect use, or lack, of oil. Using the wrong type of oil negatively affects all engine parts, whereas failing to prime your engine with oil causes it to run on air and subsequently break.

Wrong fuel

Diesel compression engines are highly susceptible to damage from misfuelling, which can lead to the need for new diesel engine parts or even a completely new engine. To avoid this problem, always double-check the fuel you intend to use before refuelling.

Pistons

Pistons are an important part of the engine and can fail in several ways. These include:

- The timing belt snapping

- Piston slap (a noisy piston)

- Piston rings becoming worn out

- The piston becoming burnt (usually by dirty fuel injectors)

- The piston becoming cracked (usually by frequent use of poor-quality fuel)

Gaskets

Gaskets most often fail due to overheating caused by coolant leaks. Diesel engines are more prone to gasket failure than other engine types because their gaskets regularly face higher combustion pressures. Their intricate nature also complicates diesel gasket repair.

Cylinder heads

Problems with cylinder heads are usually related to the loss of compression. Cracks in cylinder heads and internal casting defects often lead to leakage, too. Cylinder head problems can cause diesel engines to misfire, so they are important to fix quickly.

Fuel injectors

Faulty fuel injectors can lead to a range of issues, including reduced performance, increased fuel consumption and engine damage. Rough idling, poor acceleration and a strong smell of fuel are typical symptoms. Cleaning the fuel injectors is the simplest way to prevent faults.

All diesel engines are different, so there’s no one-size-fits-all solution to any problem. It’s also worth emphasising the importance of determining and addressing the cause of the problem with your diesel engine before replacing parts or reassembling the whole thing.

If you’re experiencing problems with your diesel compression engines, please contact Foxwood Diesel with your specific issue and engine number. In the meantime, see our article on keeping your diesel engines in good condition.

With over 30 years’ shared experience, Foxwood Diesel are specialists in diesel compression engine reconditioning, rebuilds and parts. We hold large quantities of diesel engine spares, many of which are available for same-day dispatch and tailored to a range of major diesel engine manufacturers, including Mercedes, Volvo and DAF.

With our expert knowledge of diesel engines and systems, we offer highly effective reconditioning and rebuilding solutions at our engine machining centre. Your engine is our priority. Contact Us today so that we can find the right solution for your diesel problems.