AdBlue: What It Is, Why It is Important and How to Use It
AdBlue is one of the most important advances in automotive technology in recent years, and it’s a key component in helping to reduce emissions from diesel engines. It’s a non-toxic and non-flammable liquid, made of urea and deionized water, which is used to reduce the amount of nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions from diesel-powered vehicles. AdBlue has become an essential part of vehicle maintenance, and it’s important to understand how to use it correctly. This comprehensive guide to AdBlue will provide an overview of what AdBlue is, why it is important and how to use it correctly. From understanding the different types of AdBlue to learning about the importance of proper AdBlue storage, this guide will provide you with the information you need to ensure your diesel vehicle is running efficiently and safely.
What is AdBlue?
AdBlue is a liquid solution made with urea and deionized water. It’s a mixture that reduces the amount of nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions from diesel-powered vehicles. NOx emissions from diesel engines are harmful to both humans and the environment. However, using a catalytic converter, which is standard on all diesel vehicles, doesn’t fully reduce the amount of NOx emissions. So, to further reduce the amount of NOx emissions from diesel engines, NOx-reducing chemicals, like AdBlue, are required. AdBlue is a solution that’s injected into the vehicle’s engine to help reduce the amount of harmful NOx emissions by breaking down the chemicals in diesel fuel into less harmful components.
The importance of AdBlue
As mentioned above, AdBlue reduces the amount of NOx emissions from diesel engines. It’s an essential ingredient in helping to reduce harmful emissions and keep the air clean. However, in order for AdBlue to be effective, it must be used correctly. Using the correct amount of AdBlue will help ensure your vehicle is using the correct amount of diesel and that your catalytic converter is properly cleaned. If you don’t add enough AdBlue to your vehicle, you might notice a decrease in fuel economy. If you overfill your vehicle with AdBlue, there may be a build-up of fluid in your engine or a decrease in the engine’s performance. In order to ensure your vehicle is running properly and safely, it’s important to use the correct amount of AdBlue and to store it properly.
Different types of AdBlue
There are two main types of AdBlue: AdBlue-type A and AdBlue-type B. The type of AdBlue you use will depend on the type of diesel engine your vehicle uses. Engine Type AdBlue Type – Diesel engines with a Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system – Type A (Dexterity type AdBlue) – Diesel engines with a SCR system and diesel particulate filter (DPF) – Type B (Hyster type AdBlue)
How to use AdBlue
Using the correct amount of AdBlue is important, and it’s important to follow the instructions provided by the vehicle manufacturer. You should never exceed the recommended amount or use the type of AdBlue recommended for your vehicle. You should also never mix types of AdBlue or use a type other than what is recommended for your specific vehicle. If you’re using a type of AdBlue different from the one recommended for your vehicle, you may notice a decrease in performance or a decrease in fuel economy. If you’re not sure how much AdBlue to use, you should consult your vehicle’s manual or talk to a mechanic. It’s important to note that the recommended amount of AdBlue may change depending on the conditions you’re driving in. Driving in stop-and-go traffic or driving in extreme temperatures may require you to increase or decrease the amount of AdBlue in your vehicle.
How often should you top up AdBlue?
The amount of AdBlue you use will depend on your specific vehicle, the conditions you’re driving in and the manufacturer’s recommendations. However, you should check your vehicle’s AdBlue level at least once a month. If you’re driving in extreme temperatures, you should check the level more frequently. If you have a vehicle with a DPF, you should check the AdBlue level more often, perhaps every other week, to ensure you don’t run out. If you’ve added too much AdBlue to your vehicle, you may actually cause the DPF to grow larger, which will cause it to take longer to clean. If you don’t have enough AdBlue in your vehicle, the process of cleaning the DPF will take far longer, which can lead to fines from the government.
AdBlue storage and handling
When handling, storing and using AdBlue, it’s important to be careful. AdBlue is non-toxic to humans, but it may cause skin irritation. It’s also important to note that AdBlue shouldn’t be used on plants, as it may cause them to die. You should never add AdBlue to your vehicle’s fuel tank or fuel supply. It’s also important to never mix AdBlue with other cleaning or washing products, as it can cause the other products to become toxic. In order to properly store AdBlue, you should keep it in a cool, dry place. You should also keep it in its original container, away from children and pets, and away from any heat sources, as extreme temperatures can damage the solution.
AdBlue warning signs
If you notice one or more of these warning signs associated with AdBlue, it may be time to replace it. – Your vehicle’s engine runs rougher than usual – AdBlue may have become too thick and may need to be replaced – Your vehicle uses an abnormally high amount of fuel – The engine may not be properly cleaning itself, which can cause it to use more fuel – You notice a decrease in engine performance – You may have used too much AdBlue or the solution may have become too thick
AdBlue top up kits
If you’re using AdBlue-type B, you may need to add AdBlue solution to your vehicle more frequently than if you were using AdBlue-type A. You can visit a mechanic or an automotive store to purchase an AdBlue top up kit. These kits will come with everything you need to add AdBlue to your vehicle, usually in a container that will hold the solution properly. If you’re using a type of AdBlue that comes in a container, you can also purchase a refill kit. These refill kits are available online and at some automotive stores and will allow you to add AdBlue to your vehicle without having to buy a full container. Benefits of using AdBlue – Reduce harmful emissions that can impact the environment and human health – Keep your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently, which can reduce fuel costs – Help extend the lifespan of your vehicle – Make it easier to sell your vehicle, as it will have fewer faults and will be less expensive to maintain – Make it easier to pass a vehicle inspection – AdBlue is required in many countries and states
AdBlue FAQs
There are many myths and misconceptions about AdBlue and diesel vehicles. Here are some of the most common questions people have about using AdBlue. – Does using AdBlue harm your catalytic converter? Using AdBlue can help extend the lifespan of your catalytic converter, as it helps your engine properly clean itself. – Does using AdBlue void your vehicle’s warranty? No, using AdBlue doesn’t void your warranty. However, if you don’t follow the correct amount or type of AdBlue, it may cause damage to other parts of your vehicle. – Does AdBlue smell like blueberries? No, AdBlue doesn’t have an odor, which is why it’s sometimes referred to as “stinky water”. – Can AdBlue be used in place of diesel fuel? No, AdBlue can’t be used as fuel. It must be added in place of diesel fuel. – What happens if you don’t use AdBlue? If you don’t use AdBlue, your engine may not properly clean itself, which can lead to an increase in fuel consumption and carbon emissions. These are some of the most common questions people have about AdBlue.
AdBlue benefits the environment and people using it, including you!
So how does AdBlue definitely benefit the environment? Using AdBlue, as well as other diesel engine technologies, will decrease the amount of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases emitted into the atmosphere. Since diesel engines