9 Key Tips for New Diesel Vehicle Owners

9 Key Tips for New Diesel Vehicle Owners

So you’ve joined the diesel club — that’s awesome. Whether you’re driving a heavy-duty pickup, a sporty diesel sedan, or a workhorse SUV, diesel engines offer unique advantages like torque-heavy performance and better fuel economy. But owning a diesel isn’t the same as owning a petrol-powered car — and knowing how to care for your diesel properly can save you money and headaches long term.

Here are 9 practical tips to help you get the most out of your diesel-powered vehicle:

1. Understand your DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter)
Modern diesels are fitted with a DPF to trap and reduce harmful exhaust particulates. It’s a critical emissions control system — and it needs regular attention. Short, stop-start trips can clog your DPF and trigger warning lights. Longer drives at sustained speeds help your vehicle regenerate and clean the DPF properly.

2. Use a quality DPF cleaner
Rislone’s DPF Cleaner is formulated to help reduce soot buildup and support proper regeneration. Regular use (every few thousand kilometres or before long road trips) can help prevent blockages and keep your DPF system working efficiently.

3. Keep your fuel system clean
Diesel injectors are precise — and sensitive. Deposits can form over time, reducing performance and increasing fuel consumption. Use a high-quality additive like Rislone Diesel Fuel System Treatment to clean injectors, lubricate the fuel pump, and improve combustion efficiency.

4. Warm up properly
Unlike petrol engines, diesel engines rely on compression heat to ignite fuel. In colder weather, it’s good practice to let the glow plugs work fully before starting, and allow the engine to warm up gently before high-load driving.

5. Don’t ignore warning lights
If your DPF or check engine light appears, don’t ignore it. Continuing to drive with a clogged filter can cause serious damage and lead to expensive repairs. Address issues early — often a simple clean or highway drive is all that’s needed if caught in time.

6. Watch for white smoke
White smoke at startup, especially in colder months, can be common — but persistent white smoke or excess soot could indicate injector or glow plug issues.

7. Don’t let it idle too long
Long idling can cause carbon build-up and lead to inefficient DPF regeneration. If you’re stationary for more than a minute or two, consider turning off the engine.

8. Use the right oil
Diesel engines often require low-SAPS oil that’s safe for DPF systems. Always check your manufacturer’s specs and service intervals, and use trusted oil brands that are DPF-compatible.

9. Take it for a proper drive
Give your diesel a proper run regularly — especially if you’re normally city-based. Higher engine loads and sustained speeds help regenerate your DPF, clean your system, and keep things running as intended.

Need help choosing the right Rislone product?
Reach out to our team at Smits Group — we’re here to help you keep your diesel running clean, powerful, and trouble-free.

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.