If you are looking for a new vehicle or you just take an interest in the ever-changing vehicle industry, you will probably have heard of AdBlue. In this series, we talk about what AdBlue is, what it does, and whether you need to know about it.
So, what is AdBlue?
AdBlue is the brand name for Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF). Not to be confused with a fuel additive, as a fluid, AdBlue is held in a separate tank and is normally refilled via a separate, blue, cap which is generally located near the fuel cap, under the bonnet or in the boot of your vehicle. Surprisingly considering its name, AdBlue is clear in colour and contains a mixture of urea and de-ionised water.
What does AdBlue do?
Harmful diesel exhaust fumes contain nitrogen oxide (NOx). When AdBlue reaches high temperatures, the urea and water mix is converted to ammonia and carbon dioxide. This combination mixes with nitrogen oxide, converting the harmful fumes into harmless nitrogen and water. Although this process has been used for a long time in heavy goods vehicles and industry, it has only just become available for smaller and domestic vehicles, and it is hoped that its use will reduce emissions.
Who can use AdBlue?
AdBlue isn’t standard yet, but in general, if your vehicle was produced from September 2015 onwards, and it if is French or German or made by Land Rover or Jaguar, it will use AdBlue. Some cars manufactured before 2015 also use AdBlue; if you are unsure, look for a (normally blue) filler cap in your boot, under your bonnet or by your fuel cap. If all else fails, check your vehicle handbook or ask your local dealer who should be able to clarify things for you.
How often does AdBlue need to be refilled?
AdBlue is released into the flow of exhaust fumes, so the amount of AdBlue that you use will depend on the volume of fumes that you produce. Basically, it will depend on how much and how far you drive, as well as how economically you drive. In general terms, the average vehicle will consume about a litre of AdBlue every 600 miles, but if you drive more erratically or faster, that could be as low as every 350 miles. As AdBlue reservoirs can vary in size, the variance in how often you need to refill gets wider, from around 3,000 miles to every 12,000 miles.
Based on average AdBlue consumption, this means that you are likely to have to top up your levels between annual services. However, if you are unsure, keep an eye out for the AdBlue warning light and give your local garage a call if you have any concerns. Next week we will talk through how to top up AdBlue. Follow Trust A Garage on Facebook or Twitter for more information.