In cold climates, diesel fuel behaves differently than gasoline, tending to thicken and settle into a sluggish, creamy texture. An auto expert from Za Rulem magazine, as noted in an interview with Socialbites.ca, explains that the best way to counter this issue is by using specific additives known as anti-gel products. These additives prevent the fuel from freezing and thickening, keeping the diesel fluid enough to circulate when temperatures drop.
According to Mikhail Kolodochkin, thickened diesel can turn sluggish in freezing conditions, making starting the engine more challenging. He recommends adding antigel to the fuel before the cold begins to bite, because such additives can lower the fuel’s freezing point by roughly 5°C. This can significantly improve cold-start performance. He remains cautious about other additive types, suggesting that they may not deliver the same reliability in preventing diesel gelation.
The expert also addresses a common misconception about gasoline. He notes that choosing gasoline with a higher octane rating does not automatically make winter starts easier. In practical terms, a driver who typically fuels with AI-92 won’t gain a winter-start advantage by switching to AI-95; the higher octane does not directly translate into easier cold-weather ignition.
The discussion underscores a practical takeaway for drivers operating in frigid regions: prioritize fuel management strategies that address diesel gelation, and recognize that fuel octane alone does not determine cold-weather performance. These insights are backed by field experience and contemporary automotive testing, and they offer a straightforward recommendation for vehicle owners facing icy mornings. [Source: Socialbites.ca; Za Rulem magazine, as cited in expert commentary]