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What’s the difference between a Diesel Mechanic and an Auto Mechanic?

Aug 12, 2019
diesel mechanic vs auto mechanic
There’s a lot of engines on the road these days, and eventually, they all need servicing. From standard
cars and SUVs to large trucks, Poston Motor Company has technicians with the experience to handle
them all. Whether you're driving the kids to soccer practice, or revving up for a long haul drive, our
certified auto and diesel mechanics can get you back on the road. But what's the difference between the
two, and does it really matter?

Diesel engines and gasoline engines are designed to convert the chemical energy in fuel into mechanical
energy. That mechanical energy moves pistons connected to a crankshaft, creating the motion needed
to move the wheels of a vehicle forward. The difference between a diesel and a gasoline engine is how
the chemical energy is turned into mechanical energy. In a gasoline engine, fuel is mixed with air, then
compressed by the pistons and combusted by sparks from the spark plugs. In a diesel engine, the air is
compressed first, causing it to heat up, then mixed with fuel, causing it to ignite in a small explosion.
Diesel engines use fuel more efficiently and emit fewer greenhouse gasses, making them ideal for heavy
duty and frequent use. But because they’re more specialized motors, they require more specialized
training to repair.

While automotive mechanics and diesel mechanics both work on vehicles and engines, diesel repair
technicians have the unique training needed to handle diesel motors. Most automotive mechanics focus
on repairing and maintaining the cars, vans, and trucks that most people drive every day. The majority
of an auto mechanic's work involves diagnosing and fixing straightforward repairs and maintaining the
parts and systems of personal vehicles. Because modern cars have become electronically complex, some
auto mechanic work requires computer and technological experience. Meanwhile, diesel engine
mechanics specialize in the repair of trucks, busses, equipment, and other large vehicles. Their work
requires a good deal of training on the mechanical parts and systems that make diesel engines run
efficiently, and less on the complex computer systems of a normal car. And unlike an auto mechanic, a
diesel engine technician is more likely to have experience with diesel car repair and light truck
maintenance.

When you are looking for an auto mechanic, find one with the experience and training to handle all types
of engines and vehicles. After all, if you drive or operate specialized vehicles or equipment, you need
specialized technicians who can handle specialized repairs. And what’s better than finding a one stop
shop with both auto and diesel mechanics in Cumming? At Poston Motor Company, we can fix whatever
you can drive!

If you’re looking for local auto repair or diesel engine service in Cumming or Forsyth County, Poston
Motor Company has highly experienced and well-trained technicians you can trust for safe, reliable
repair work. Don’t take your car or diesel truck to just anyone! Schedule a service with your local
Cumming auto repair shop and keep your motor running! 678-455-5246
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