Diesel owners stranded as engine ‘Glow Plugs’ fail in winter

Diesel vehicles account for around one-in-three of all vehicles sold in the UK. Diesel engines are basically economical and reliable. The exception is when the engine glow plugs break down leaving motorists stranded. It’s a common problem that will affect thousands of motorists this winter.

Diesel glow plugs, also known as ‘heater plugs’, warm the engine before it can be started. It is essential they operate correctly to avoid a breakdown – especially in cold weather. Symptoms are the engine turns over but fails to start. Continually trying to start the vehicle can either result in a dead battery or burning out the starter motor, resulting in added expense. According to mail order specialist Car Parts Direct, glow plugs are one of the most common parts to fail on a diesel engine. The company now provides a free online video to show motorists how to solve the diesel glow plug problem.

Mark Cornwall of Car Parts Direct said, "Diesel glow plugs fail so often we decided to produce the online video for our customers to see how they can test and replace a set of glow plugs themselves. This job takes about 20 minutes on most vehicles. Dealing with this problem early can save unnecessary expense later – it’s a simple D.I.Y. job when you know how."

Depending on the make of the vehicle, a set of glow plugs can cost over a £100 at the main dealers. Add to this a call out charge and fitting costs and a garage can soon ratchet-up an invoice for hundreds of pounds.

Car Parts Direct supplies a new range of ‘long life’ diesel glow plugs with prices starting at around £6 each. Visitors to the Car Parts Direct website can select their vehicle, order glow plugs online and they are dispatched the same day. To see the online video of "How to replace and test your own glow plugs" or to order visit carparts-direct.co.uk