When refueling at the gas station, it is normal to find two types of diesel at the pumps, and many users wonder which of the two is best for their vehicle.
The difference between normal diesel (e+) and premium diesel (e+10) is based on the cetane levels they contain in each case, both meeting the established quality standards and the minimum level of cetane that they must contain by regulation.
It is necessary to know that the index or level of cetane contained in each diesel oil directly affects the time that passes between the injection of the fuel and the start of its combustion, which very directly affects the performance of the engine, although it can also affect consumption. .
By producing a faster ignition that occurs with a total and very uniform burning of the fuel, it is possible to obtain a higher quality combustion, so that, the higher the cetane composition, the shorter the delay of the corresponding ignition and consequently the better it is. the quality of the combustion obtained.
Real differences between both types of diesel
Taking RACE as an information source, the fundamental difference between the two is totally related to the amount of cetane they contain.
In fact, normal diesel or diesel e+ has a cetane level of 51, and premium diesel or e+10 contains a cetane level of 55, and that is why in the case of premium the time that passes with its use between injection and the start of combustion is less, since it has a higher amount of cetane in its composition.
A vehicle that is fueled with premium diesel (higher cetane level) provides improved combustion and consequently less vibrations, slightly less consumption, lower emissions and, of course, greater overall engine performance.
However, with normal diesel fuel, that is, with less cetane content, the engines suffer somewhat more during cold starts, so the useful life of the engine is reduced over time, something that is barely noticeable in its appearance. habitual use but that it acts day by day, which does not mean that the fuel is the cause of the aging problems of the engines, nor that it is necessary to always use premium diesel.
In addition, premium diesel also stands out compared to normal diesel for a lower level of sulfur in its content and also incorporates various additives that have been composed with anti-corrosion properties that serve to clean the engine and prevent potential humidity, thus increasing the durability of all propulsion system components. It must be noted that these differences are really slight, although over long periods of time their use will provide better results.
Regarding normal diesel e+, cold starting is somewhat more difficult due to its higher viscosity and it generates more waste due to its lower cetane content, its high level of sulfur and its 7% biodiesel.
Normal diesel e+ also has some advantages since its high level of viscosity is also a good lubricant for different parts of the engine, thus avoiding various breakdowns that can be costly, especially in older vehicles that do not contain the common-rail system. ” and have simple injection pumps.
Significant price difference
Like 95 and 98 octane gasoline, there is a notable difference in price for diesel depending on the fuel chosen. In fact, a liter of e+10 premium diesel costs between 6 and 8 cents more than normal diesel.
In short, when choosing one type of diesel or another, you only have to take into account some factors such as the age of the vehicle, its needs, the budget available for refueling, and whether the slight increase is appreciated. of performance offered by the use of premium diesel and to what level it is important to keep the engine in the best possible conditions.
Whichever fuel you choose, remember that what your car cannot be missing is MAPFRE Car Insurance to always be in the best hands.