Short commute in 2015 Duramax.

[Jlwright]

I've read several posts about short drives or commutes to work being not good for a diesel. I looked but didn't see anything about what the problems are. I work from home but the drive into town is only 6 miles. Can someone explain what the issues are and how to avoid them?

[Javi]

I drive my truck to work and back five days a week seven miles each way and I've never had a problem with the '15 or the '12 before. We take this truck to the grocery, to dinner, to see the in-laws, to visit the grandkids and most every place we go...even drove it to Dallas for a family funeral a few weeks ago.

The DW's little Focus sits in the driveway unless it's just her going, I don't like climbing up to get out of a car.. :D

I'd say that as long as you don't sit idling for long periods and drive it on the road frequently it ain't gonna hurt it none.. It sure hasn't shown up on either of mine..

[bsmith0404]

I agree 100% with what Javi said. I drive mine whenever and wherever I want and have never had a problem. I think the older ones would create a soot buildup in the DPF, but with the addition of the DEF to burn the soot out and clean the DPF has cured that. With older diesels it was normal to let them sit and idle, new ones with the DPF should not be left to idle for long periods.

[Desert185]

The biggest killer of engines that are driven infrequently is internal condensation. I would argue that short drives like you described would be better than letting an engine sit without operating for long periods. Ideally, getting the oil temp above 180dF for at least 30 minutes would resolve the condensation problem.

There is an additive called CamGuard developed by a chemical engineer for aviation engines that are typically inactive for long periods. There is documented evidence that CamGuard works as advertised, and I have had similar positive results with the engine in my airplane since early 2007. That company now makes CamGuard for diesel engines. Google it.

[Jlwright]

Thanks, I feel better now. I have 4 bottles of camguard left after selling my RV9A. Sounds like a good idea. I might work a trade with an airplane friend to order some for a Diesel engine.

[glenalt]

Thanks for the tip.

[denverpilot]

The biggest killer of engines that are driven infrequently is internal condensation. I would argue that short drives like you described would be better than letting an engine sit without operating for long periods. Ideally, getting the oil temp above 180dF for at least 30 minutes would resolve the condensation problem.

There is an additive called CamGuard developed by a chemical engineer for aviation engines that are typically inactive for long periods. There is documented evidence that CamGuard works as advertised, and I have had similar positive results with the engine in my airplane since early 2007. That company now makes CamGuard for diesel engines. Google it.


We use this stuff in our airplane and its impressive how much it has helped aircraft engines that might sit for a week or two without operating. I hadn't paid attention and didn't know they made a diesel variety. It'll probably go in my truck.

If they did as good a job on the diesel stuff as the airplane stuff, I'm sold.

[Jlwright]

It looks like it will add $25.00 to an oil change. Maybe worth it but pretty steep. It takes 1.6 ounces per gallon of oil and the price I got was $25.00 a pint.

[Desert185]

Well, if your oil change interval is 5000 miles it will add $.005/mile to your operating costs. If the cost of DEF isn't an issue, then this direct benefit to your engine shouldn't be an issue either. :)