Your fleet or commercial vehicles most likely spend a lot of time idling. Whether it’s to keep warm or simply out of convenience, the stop and go lifespan of these vehicles mean idling is a part of their duties. But, is it bad for them? Cecil's Automotive in Collierville, TN and Olive Branch, MS has the information you need.
In short, there are simply not many reasons to idle a modern engine any more than necessary. In the old days, diesels were hard to start, and hard to warm up - once you got one started, it was easier just to keep it running.
These days, however, modern diesel engines don’t have the same issues. While idling your engine most likely won’t dramatically affect it negatively, any time an engine is active it is accruing wear and tear. When an engine is idling, it also isn’t lubricating or burning fuel as efficiently as it should, which encourages excessive wear and tear.
On the other hand, stopping and starting an engine repeatedly is tough on components like batteries, starters, ignition switches, and so on - for the most part, it’s important to use your best judgment. If your vehicles are making 50 shortstops a day, it may be better to keep the engine running. If you’re making 10 stops a day for more than a few minutes at a time, it’s probably better to shut the engine off.
For the technicians who know diesel, trust Cecil's Automotive, no matter your repair or maintenance needs. For the best commercial and fleet vehicle service shop in Collierville, TN and Olive Branch, MS, call or stop by today.
