Cetane Number
The cetane number shows how quickly diesel fuel ignites after it is injected into hot compressed air.
What is Cetane Number?
Diesel sold in Europe must have a cetane number of at least 51. Higher cetane means shorter ignition delay, smoother running and easier cold starts. It is the opposite idea to octane: diesel should ignite easily, petrol should resist ignition.
How it works
Short ignition delay means fuel burns gradually as it is injected, reducing the typical diesel knock.
Why it matters for your car
Low cetane fuel can cause rough running, smoke and hard cold starts. Premium diesels often have higher cetane and additives.
Other terms
- A/C Compressor Oil (PAG Oil)
- AC Charging
- All-wheel Drive (AWD)
- Dwell Time (Coil Charge Time)
- Flat-Tappet Camshaft
- Flex-Fuel Vehicle (E85)
- Four-Valve Cylinder Head
- Green Card (International Motor Insurance)
- Inline Engine (Straight Engine)
- Nitrogen Tyre Inflation
- Oscilloscope
- Pedal Box (Pedal Assembly)
- Periodic Technical Inspection (MOT, TÜV)
- Pillarless Hardtop
- Power Mirror
- Reduced Power Mode In Electric Cars (Turtle Mode)
- Rod Knock (Big-end Knock)
- Torque Curve
- Tow Eye (Towing Hook)
- Valve Body (Automatic Transmission)