A popular online mechanic has advised drivers on when they should use premium diesel in their car, stating it could help the engine to run better.
Craig is a mechanic at Walsall Wood Tyre & Service and regularly posts short videos to the company’s TikTok page in which he gives tips to viewers on how to avoid safety fears and expensive mechanical issues.
In a recent video, he answers a question left by a viewer asking if premium diesel is worth it, highlighting that the fuel can vary significantly in quality.
He explained: “So, diesel is a bit of a funny thing. I previously did a video saying all supermarket fuels and diesels are the same, but that’s not strictly true. If you were to go and buy diesel from Tesco, then you’re going to get basic diesel with not a lot of additives in there.
“If you were to buy the same standard diesel from Shell, Esso or BP, those fuels are going to be a little more expensive but they’re going to have a few more chemicals in there to help burn and keep your engine cleaner.
READ MORE: ‘I’m a car dealer – this handy hidden compartment can protect valuables from prying eyes’
Whilst all diesel sold to consumers has to go through the same regulations, the mechanic noted that the fuel sold at supermarkets often features fewer chemicals to clean the fuel system.
As a result, running a car exclusively on supermarket diesel can cause deposits to build up, resulting in less fuel being able to reach the engine and a reduction in power.
Many motoring experts encourage drivers who typically refuel their car using supermarket diesel to regularly flush out any deposits by using a fuel additive.
Craig also noted that diesel car owners can avoid deposit from building up by switching to premium fuel, which features a detergent to clean out the fuel system and some engine components.
He added: “On top of that you’ve got your premium diesel, which usually involves a small amount of detergent mixed in with the usual chemicals as well. Now, all of these added chemicals do add money, which is why these fuels are more expensive, but they do give some benefit to your car.
“The main benefit with optimum [premium] diesel is to keep the engine cleaner internally. The added detergent to the fuel helps to clean out the injectors and makes for a cleaner burn in the cylinders, creating less soot.”
