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What is AdBlue?
And other frequently asked questions
We often get enquiries about what AdBlue is and what is used for. So, we thought we'd answer some of the most common questions we get and compile them here as a handy point of reference.
What is AdBlue?
AdBlue is a branded diesel exhaust fluid. It is a solution made from 32.5% high-purity urea and 67.5% deionised water.It reduces the amount of air pollution created by a diesel engine by converting nitrous oxides (NOx) into harmless nitrogen and water.
Does my vehicle need AdBlue?
Only diesel vehicles fitted with a Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system require AdBlue. Generally speaking, the more recently a vehicle was manufactured, the more likely it is to use AdBlue. If you are unsure about whether your vehicle has an SCR, and therefore, needs AdBlue, refer to your vehicle's owner manual or contact your dealership. You can also look on your car to see if you can locate the AdBlue tank cap.
Where is my AdBlue tank filler neck?
This will depend on your vehicle's make and model. In some vehicles, it is located next to the diesel tank cap. For others, it is inside the boot or under the bonnet. Refer to the user manual for confirmation.
How much AdBlue do I need?
This will depend on your vehicle type. AdBlue® consumption is influenced by a range of factors including engine size and load, route selection and ambient temperature. On average, you can expect it to be 4-8% of the diesel consumption. or around 6 litres for every 100l of fuel.
How will I know when I need to refill my AdBlue tank?
If your vehicle uses AdBlue, you will have a gauge on the dashboard that tells you have much you have left in the tank. In more modern vehicles with digital displays, you may even get a range warning or message to refill.
What happens if my vehicle runs out of AdBlue?
If your vehicle runs out of AdBlue while you're driving, the vehicle's performance will be reduced in order to limit its emissions. Once the engine has stopped, it likely won't restart until your AdBlue reservoir is refilled.
Can I refill my AdBlue tank at a petrol station?
Some petrol stations do have AdBlue pumps. However, this tends to be more expensive than if you purchase your own supply. If you have a car, purchasing AdBlue in 10l containers that you can keep at home or your place of work can be less expensive and ensure you always have it to hand when you need it. For larger vehicles and fleets, having an on-site supply via IBC or tank tends to be more economical and efficient.
What do I do if I put AdBlue in my fuel tank?
AdBlue is not a fuel additive so should never be added to your fuel tank. However, if you do this by accident, do not start your vehicle's engine. Call an expert to flush the vehicle's fuel tank and then assess if any damage has been caused.
Is AdBlue dangerous?
AdBlue® is non-flammable, non-explosive, and harmless to the environment. If you spill AdBlue on your hands or on your clothing, you can simply rinse it away with water. It can make surfaces slippery, however, so be sure to remove it from floors if spilt to avoid falls and injuries.
How long does AdBlue last?
AdBlue has around a 12-month expectancy. Storing AdBlue® is straightforward but it should be kept at between 11 and 30°C to maximise its shelf life.
Is using AdBlue a legal requirement?
Since European exhaust emissions standards were implemented in 1993, it has been necessary for diesel trucks to use AdBlue if they produce CO above a certain level. The transport industry is the biggest contributor of greenhouse gas emissions with diesel-powered vehicles and equipment accounting for almost half of all nitrogen oxides (NOx). This is why emissions standards have been in place for the last three decades. Euro 1 came into effect in 1993 and stipulated that any truck producing more than 2.72 g/km of CO was required to use AdBlue. In 2006, Euro 4 of the EU law regarding diesel emissions came into effect. The laws become stricter with every update and the 4th edition made it compulsory for all new lorries to have SCR fitted on them. Euro 6 was then introduced in September 2014 and requires any truck producing more than 0.50 g/km of CO and over 0.08 g/km of NOx to use AdBlue.
How can I tell if my AdBlue is genuine?
AdBlue® is a registered trademark of the Verband Der Automobilindustrie (VDA). Genuine AdBlue, is clear and colourless, made from 32.5% urea and 67.5% deionised water, will have a traceable batch number and will mention ISO22241 on its packaging.
Where can I get AdBlue from?
AdBlue can be purchased from many different places including garages, automotive shops and online retailers but you should always make sure that what you are purchasing is a genuine product. Check the manufacturer's details and purchase from a reputable supplier such as ourselves. If you'd like to speak to us about your AdBlue needs, please get in touch.
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