Diesel Trucks Vs Gas Trucks: Which To Choose?

If you're looking to get a truck, you might be wondering if one powered by diesel or gas is more suited for you. Luckily, we have done some research for you, and here is what we found.

It is recommended to choose a diesel truck if you want a vehicle that offers better fuel economy ratings. They also have longer-lasting performance and are highly reliable. However, since gas trucks are lighter, they are ideal for handling bigger payloads. Choosing between both vehicles greatly depends on your needs.

You should consider some factors before choosing between a diesel and gas truck. Keep reading to get detailed information about diesel and gas-powered trucks.

A Dodge Ram 1500 pickup truck on display January 15th, 2015, at the 2015 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan - Diesel Trucks Vs Gas Trucks Which To Choose?

Diesel Trucks Vs Gas Trucks: Which to Choose?

Before selecting between diesel and gas trucks, you should place your needs ahead of anything else. If you want a truck that is durable and reliable in terms of performance with strong internal components, you should consider picking a diesel truck.

A diesel truck has excellent fuel economy but is more expensive than a gas truck. You want a vehicle that can be used for long durations without running out of fuel. With a diesel truck, you won't bother too much about the amount of fuel you have.

A gas-powered truck is a better pick if you want to use the vehicle for carrying a heavier payload. This is because they are lighter in weight. Gas trucks do a better job in terms of horsepower and acceleration.

Using gas trucks to carry heavy loads over a long distance can help you reach your destination faster than a diesel truck since it has more torque and is thus better at overtaking other vehicles on the highway.

Differences Between Diesel And Gas Engine

Diesel and gasoline are both extracted from crude oil but have different properties. The major difference between diesel and gas engines is how the fuel burns.

Diesel engines are heavily built with immovable components, which is why they can last longer, while gas engines are built with lighter components which is why they are lighter but also not as durable as diesel engines. 

The design of a gas engine is simpler than that of a diesel engine. Additionally, diesel engines can deal with more heat and pressure.

How Many Miles Can A Diesel And Gas Truck Last?

Ford F-150 Raptor - Most Extreme Production Truck On The Planet standing on a sand dune by the ocean

Diesel trucks can travel miles away before needing any major repairs, reaching up to 1,000,000 to 1,500,000 miles. This depends on how it is maintained. If you maintain your truck engine, reaching the maximum miles is guaranteed.

A gas truck in good condition can operate for around 200,000 miles. While a gas truck moves faster because it is lighter, it cannot go over 200,000 miles. Its lubricant is volatile and combusts more easily than diesel.

A gas truck is used for shorter distances and cannot go over long distances like diesel trucks since it is lighter.

Are Diesel Trucks Harder To Maintain Compared To Gas Trucks?

Ford F-150 Raptor - Most Extreme Production Truck On The Planet while driving in extreme off-road

Diesel trucks require more maintenance than gas trucks. They do not use distributor rotors that easily go bad due to their constant rotation during operation. This makes it require more maintenance than gas trucks.

The following is a list of maintenance tips for diesel engines:

  • Replace the oil filter regularly, as dirty oil can clog your engine.
  • To prevent dirt from getting into the engine, always use diesel treatment.
  • Check the coolant, as it can become more acidic and rot out your radiator.
  • Replace the air filter to prevent debris and other particles from reaching your engine.
  • Drain the water separator to keep the diesel fuel clean.
  • Change the fuel filter.
  • Examine the glow plugs for ignition performance.
  • Check the gaskets to avoid leaks.

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What's Better For Daily Use: Gas Or Diesel Truck?

The F350 Ford tackling the sand dunes of the preserve park

If you plan on using your truck daily, you should consider getting a gas truck. This is because they are affordable and give off fewer poisonous gases. However, if you want greater hauling and towing prowess, it is okay to go for a diesel truck.

Do Diesel Trucks Cost More To Insure Than Gas Trucks?

Insurance costs for a vehicle depend on the value of the vehicle. The more expensive the vehicle is, the costlier it is to insure. As diesel trucks cost more than gas trucks, their insurance is higher than gas trucks.

You can save on your diesel truck insurance if you purchase used models rather than new models. Since diesel trucks have a depreciated value, this automatically lowers their insurance.

What Is The Resale Value Of Diesel And Gas Trucks?

Spending so much on a diesel truck isn't a bad idea. You can resell an old diesel truck for a better price than a gas truck, depending on the make and model. Also, diesel trucks don't get old as fast as gas trucks, so you can sell them at a higher price if you want to. However, it is not easy to sell an old gas truck.

Recently produced diesel trucks have high emission reduction technology, so they don't break down easily. This makes them a good investment.

If you usually drive below 30,000 miles in a year or aren't considering consider putting your vehicle on sale, you can still choose a gas truck. It is recommended to consider all these factors before buying a truck.

Do Diesel Trucks Need To Be Driven Hard?

A Didge Ram 1500 pickup truck on display January 15th, 2015 at the 2015 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan.

Diesel trucks should be driven hard occasionally, but not all the time. If there are carbon deposits, the hot engine will help burn them off.

To drive hard means to accelerate roughly or speed excessively. Hard driving is more like a preventive measure against carbon deposits. It is a good way of maintaining your engine.

Before running an engine hard, it should not be cold. The engine should be running at operating temperature. Running a cold engine can damage the internal bearings and components. If the oil is cold, it will be thick and cannot lubricate well.

There won't be a need to carry out burnouts or drive more than the speed limit. Just keep the speed high for a few minutes. Driving your truck hard should be done once a month to achieve all the burnouts required.

To Wrap Up

Diesel trucks are strong and durable. They are also efficient and best for towing. However, you can choose gas trucks if you want a vehicle with better horsepower and acceleration. Most importantly, the choice you make should be based on your needs.

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