Vehicles with diesel engines help form the backbone of rural and farming communities across America. The ability of a diesel engine to continue running while being exposed to extreme conditions is a major part of what makes them so popular. But when your diesel engine dies, it can grind everything to a halt. Here are the signs your diesel vehicle’s engine is failing and a shutdown may be imminent.

Identifying That Noise

There are many noises that can occur if your engine is going through failure, with each having a different cause. One of these noises is a rattling noise, which usually is a sign that the wrong type of fuel was put into the vehicle. Another noise to be wary of is the ticking noise that can occur when the engine needs oil. A problem with your timing chain being loose can cause a rattling noise and to eventually tear off, dealing major damage. Finally, if you are experiencing a wobbling or knocking noise, pay attention to make sure that your turbocharger isn’t in failure, which can cause the oil to leak.

Smoke Under the Hood

Smoke can have different meanings for your diesel engine depending on several factors. While some causes are of greater cause for concern than others, you should still investigate possible culprits before deciding to just ignore it. The most common color for smoke caused by engine troubles is black. A non-exhaustive list of problems that can cause black smoke includes an improper fuel air-to-fuel ratio, faulty injectors, and a bad air filter. White smoke is of greater cause for concern, as it indicates that the fuel is not being burned properly due to engine compression problems or water getting into the fuel store. Blue smoke is usually the result of oil being burned, a sign that there are possible seal or valve problems.

Performance Decline

A sudden drop in engine performance can also indicate that engine failure is imminent. Taking additional time to get up to speed or a dip in fuel milage usually happens gradually, but performing routine maintenance can help stem the tide. Conversely, a sudden change can signify that there is a problem that may require the engine to be rebuilt or replaced. This is most likely to occur when the other signs that your diesel vehicle’s engine is failing are ignored or neglected.