Green simplicity

I am interested in the overfuelling problem about which you often comment. Can you please tell me if this affects diesel engines as well as petrol engines? It seems strange to me that with all the latest technology built into cars (much of which I consider unnecessary), more effort is not directed in addressing this problem. I believe it ridiculous that it is necessary to drive a car for some miles before turning off the engine. To rigidly comply with this recommendation would not help global warming, when many journeys are of a much shorter distance. If diesel cars also suffer from this 'fault', are older ones as vulnerable? I drive a 1996 Vauxhall Astra 1.7 turbo diesel Estate. (Yes I know, I am a fuddy duddy.) It is in excellent condition, goes very well and serves my purpose wonderfully. Should I also thoroughly warm the engine before stopping it? The vehicle has travelled 76,000 miles and uses 'no' oil. (I use semi synthetic.)

Asked on 13 February 2010 by G.E., Frome

Answered by Honest John

That's why cars used for short distances should be electric. An 'internal combustion' engine is exactly that. It works by explosions inside itself that drive pistons. In low ambient temperatures that creates massive amounts of condensation until the engine reaches operating temperature and evaporates it off. Pre-heating internal combustion engines would solve this. It would not solve the problem of particulate filters for diesel engines getting clogged, created by the legislators in their desire to reduce particulates in the atmosphere. Regeneration of the particulate filters can only occur when they reach an extremely high temperature.

Tags: technical issues overfuelling owning

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