Sylvie Willis
Finding diesel fuel can be challenging, with varying pump availability and fuel prices across different regions. Diesel fuel is available at just over half of all retail fuel sites in the US, and prices can range from under $3.50 to over $4.00 per gallon. Diesel vehicles are highly sensitive to fuel quality, and poor diesel quality or incompatible nozzles can cause issues. To locate diesel fuel, resources like the Diesel Technology Forum, Trucker Path app, and OTR Fuel Card and Mobile App can be utilized to find refueling stations and obtain fuel discounts.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Ease of finding diesel fuel | While diesel fuel is widely available, it can be challenging to find compatible fuel for specific vehicles due to different nozzle sizes and fuel types. |
| Diesel fuel availability in the US | Diesel fuel is available at just over half of all retail fuel sites in the US. |
| Tools for finding diesel fuel | Diesel Technology Forum, Trucker Path app, OTR Fuel Card, OTR Mobile App |
| Diesel fuel prices | The average price of diesel per gallon varies across regions and over time, influenced by factors like crude oil prices, supply and demand, and global events. |
| Regions with lower diesel prices | Texas, Missouri, Oklahoma, South Carolina |
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What You'll Learn
Diesel fuel availability in the US
Finding diesel fuel in the US can be challenging, especially for those unfamiliar with the area or driving diesel cars for the first time. While the percentage of gas stations selling diesel has increased over the years, with over half of all retail fuel sites in the US offering diesel, there are still issues with finding compatible pumps and nozzles.
One issue is the variety of diesel types, including those for off-road equipment, heavy trucks, and cars. Even within on-road diesel fuel, there are different nozzle sizes for trucks and cars, and pumps at many stations are not labelled, leading to confusion and frustration. This has improved slightly since 2014, when diesel cars were first required to use a new cleaner diesel fuel, while large highway trucks were not.
To locate diesel refueling stations, drivers can utilise smartphone applications, map software, and websites. The Diesel Technology Forum (DTF) provides resources to help diesel drivers find their nearest pump, including fuel locator search services that display immediate locations and price comparisons. The OTR Mobile App is another useful tool, offering a Fuel Finder feature that allows users to map out their route and find fuel stations with the best diesel fuel discounts. Additionally, the TOP TIER™ Station Finder app helps users find gas stations offering TOP TIER™ Approved Fuels, ensuring they can access high-quality detergent fuel that protects their vehicle's performance and longevity.
For those looking to save on fuel costs, the OTR Fuel Card provides access to discounts at over 2,200 stations nationwide. Discount diesel programs offered by major fuel networks can also help lower fuel expenses. Keeping track of fuel price fluctuations through apps and websites can help identify the best times and places to fill up, especially when planning long-haul trips.
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Diesel vehicle maintenance
Diesel vehicles are more economical than petrol vehicles, but diesel engines are more complex, making them more expensive to repair. Diesel engines are also more sensitive to fuel quality than their petrol counterparts, and poor-quality diesel can cause the vehicle to shut down and enter limp mode.
To avoid costly repairs, it is important to perform routine maintenance on your diesel vehicle. Here are some tips for diesel vehicle maintenance:
- Monitor the coolant levels and acidity. Coolant becomes more acidic over time and can damage other parts of the cooling system if not checked and flushed regularly.
- Keep the engine clean.
- Replace fuel filters routinely, approximately every 10,000-15,000 miles. Most newer diesel engines have two fuel filters, which should be replaced simultaneously for optimal cleaning.
- Inspect and replace air filters as needed, especially when driving in certain climates and environments.
- Change the oil regularly, approximately every 5,000 miles or 15,000 km, depending on usage. Oil additives can help maintain lubrication and protect intricate parts.
- Allow the vehicle to idle for a few minutes before driving, especially with a cold engine, to allow oil to reach all components, including the turbocharger.
- Pay special attention to the turbocharger, as repairs can be expensive. Drive smoothly and avoid sudden changes in speed, especially in the first dozen kilometres.
- Clean the DPF (dry filter) or FAP (wet filter) regularly to remove soot and ash build-up, especially when driving primarily in city conditions.
- Use high-quality diesel fuel, especially in winter, to maintain the condition of your diesel vehicle.
There are also various smartphone applications, map software, and websites that can help diesel vehicle owners find refueling stations and plan their trips accordingly.
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Fuel locator apps
Diesel fuel is available at just over half of all retail fuel sites in the U.S. and can be more expensive and harder to find than gasoline. However, there are fuel locator apps that can help you find the nearest diesel pump.
The Diesel Technology Forum (DTF) has a collection of smartphone applications, map software, and websites to help diesel drivers find their nearest pump in all 50 states. These fuel locator search services will also show the best available prices.
There are several other fuel locator apps available for download, which can help you find the nearest fuel station and direct you there. Here are some examples:
- Waze: This app was ranked first by Tradesure Insurance for its performance in locating fuel stations. It has a fun, colourful interface and also allows you to view road works, closed roads, traffic speed, speed cameras, and more.
- Fuel Genie: This app was ranked second by Tradesure Insurance for its performance in locating fuel stations.
- Fuelio: This app helps you track your mileage, gas consumption, gas costs, and fill-ups. It also provides information about gas stations and gas prices.
- TOP TIER™ Station Finder: This app helps you find gas stations that offer TOP TIER™ Approved Fuels, which are known for their exceptional fuel quality and engine care.
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Fuel cards
Diesel fuel is available at just over half of all retail fuel sites in the U.S. While it is not difficult to find, modern diesel vehicles are sensitive to the quality of fuel, and poor diesel quality is a concern.
Fuelman
Fuelman offers fuel cards for local and nationwide fleets, helping businesses save money at the pump. They have over 40,000 fueling locations in their discount network, where customers can save $0.12 on every gallon of diesel fuel. Fuelman also helps businesses navigate the fuel industry, negotiate with vendors, and achieve impressive savings.
Multi Service Fuel Card
Multi Service Fuel Card has been providing diesel fuel cards for owner-operators and small fleets for over 45 years. They leverage their customers' collective buying power to help them achieve significant fuel savings nationwide. Their fuel card system includes custom purchase controls, 24/7 premium customer service, and trucking-specific reporting. They also have a mobile app that helps locate fuel stations and choose the most cost-efficient options.
TransConnect Services (TCS)
TCS offers a cash-secured fuel card for truck drivers with average savings of 44 cents per gallon at their in-network truck stops. They provide easy funding options and a secure account management website where customers can set purchase limits and monitor purchases. TCS is committed to keeping their costs low and offers unbeatable fuel discounts with zero transaction fees. Their Fuel Finder feature helps locate in-network fuel stops and amenities along your route.
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Fuel prices
However, diesel engines can provide up to 30% better fuel economy with the same-sized tank, potentially offsetting the higher fuel cost. Diesel vehicles are also known for their longer range, which can be advantageous when planning trips or travelling in remote areas with limited refueling options.
The sensitivity of modern diesel vehicles to fuel quality can be a factor in the operating costs. Diesel cars are known to be picky about fuel quality and may shut down or enter limp mode when exposed to consistently poor-quality diesel. This can be a concern as the availability of quality diesel fuel may vary across regions.
To address these concerns, resources such as the Diesel Technology Forum (DTF) offer smartphone applications, map software, and websites to help diesel drivers locate refueling stations and find the best available prices across all 50 states in the US. Weekly fuel price updates are also available from sources like the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) and AAA, helping drivers stay informed about fuel costs.
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Frequently asked questions
While diesel fuel is widely available, it is not offered at every gas station. In the U.S., diesel fuel is available at just over half of all retail fuel sites. There are also different types of diesel fuel for different vehicles, which can make finding the right diesel fuel more challenging.
There are several smartphone applications, map software, and websites that can help you find diesel fuel in your area. For example, the Diesel Technology Forum (DTF) has compiled a list of resources to help diesel drivers find their nearest pump. The Trucker Path app is another useful tool for finding truck-ready diesel fuel stops.
The price of diesel fuel can vary significantly by region, so planning your refuelling stops in cheaper regions can help you save money. Texas, Missouri, Oklahoma, and South Carolina are known for having some of the lowest diesel prices in the U.S. due to factors such as low state taxes and proximity to oil refineries. Additionally, fuel cards like the OTR Fuel Card can provide discounts at select stations.
