What Is the Average Life of a Diesel Engine?

Getty Images Europe/Getty Images News/Getty Images

If properly maintained, a diesel engine can last between 300,000 to 600,000 miles. In a few cases, drivers have reported that their diesel engines endured up to 1,000,000 miles.

Although diesel engines vary in longevity based on the make and model of the vehicle, with basic maintenance, proper lubrication and part replacement over time, a diesel engine far outlasts gasoline engines. A diesel engine is more costly than a gasoline engine, though, but it does retain more trade-in or sales value than its gasoline counterpart, according to Mother Earth News. Since diesel engines travel at lower speeds than gasoline engines, the less opportunity for wear and tear on bearings, piston rings and cylinder walls helps preserve its longevity.

ADVERTISEMENT