Can I drive without AdBlue?
Adblue is not physically required to run an engine, but running an engine without it will cause the vehicle emissions to exceed what’s legally permitted, so the vehicles are programmed to refuse to start if it runs out. Some will restrict performance if the adblue runs low, again to reduce emissions. Although AdBlue and DEF are marketed under different names, they are essentially the same product—both are urea-based solutions designed to reduce NOx emissions from diesel engines equipped with SCR systems.The use of AdBlue helps ensure that the engine continues to run efficiently by reducing exhaust emissions. By ensuring that the exhaust system operates at its best, the engine can potentially perform better, which can indirectly affect fuel efficiency.Since 2015, AdBlue® is required by law for use in modern diesel engines to reduce harmful nitrous oxide (NOx) emissions that cause acid rain.All AdBlue products meet specific standards, so it is essential that you do not use any other products as they could damage your vehicles SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) system resulting in expensive repairs and warranty violations.
Can I use any brand of AdBlue in my car?
It makes no difference which AdBlue® you use in the automobile industry. AdBlue®is the name of the product however customers can purchase different branded AdBlue® provided the manufacturer produced the AdBlue® following ISO 22241 standards. Different brands of AdBlue can have different chemical compositions. Mixing different brands of AdBlue can cause damage to the AdBlue system and can also cause harmful gases to be emitted from the exhaust.It is difficult to say exactly how much AdBlue® your car needs as models differ, but usage generally equates to around 1 litre per 350 to 600 miles. AdBlue® use is also usually around 3 to 6% of diesel consumption.AdBlue is commonly mistaken as a fuel additive when it is actually an exhaust fluid that should never be mixed with diesel. AdBlue has its own tank and is stored completely separately to your vehicle’s fuel. Adding AdBlue into your diesel fuel tank can cause thousands of pounds worth of damage.The findings suggest that inconsistent Adblue composition may reduce emissions reduction effectiveness and potential engine performance issues. Based on the available research, it is generally recommended to avoid mixing Adblue brands to ensure optimal performance and emissions compliance.As a reminder, the average capacity of the AdBlue tank of a private vehicle is approximately 17L, which represents a distance traveled of approximately 20,000 km. A stock of AdBlue cans would therefore make it possible to extend this distance.
Can I still drive without AdBlue?
Adblue is not physically required to run an engine, but running an engine without it will cause the vehicle emissions to exceed what’s legally permitted, so the vehicles are programmed to refuse to start if it runs out. Some will restrict performance if the adblue runs low, again to reduce emissions. If AdBlue runs out while you’re driving, you’ll be able to continue your journey. But once you turn the engine off, it won’t start again until AdBlue is topped up. This is a built-in fail-safe by manufacturers to ensure emission standards are met. It’s inconvenient – but entirely avoidable.Like putting diesel into a petrol car and vice-versa, adding AdBlue to the diesel tank, or diesel to the AdBlue tank, can have catastrophic consequences for the engine and fuel/AdBlue system. Either scenario will set off a chemical reaction and pollute the tank.Driving without AdBlue® or diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) in your vehicle’s dedicated tank is theoretically not possible. In fact, if your AdBlue® tank is empty, your diesel vehicle’s engine will simply stop and won’t be able to restart until you top it up.AdBlue does more than just help diesel trucks meet emissions regulations, it plays a crucial role in engine efficiency, longevity, and overall cost savings. While many see it as a compliance necessity, its impact goes much further, influencing everything from fuel economy to maintenance expenses.
What happens if I run out of AdBlue while driving?
If you run out of AdBlue while you’re driving, then the engine’s power and performance will be reduced to limit its emissions. Once you’ve stopped, you won’t be able to restart the engine if the AdBlue tank’s empty. The car will give you plenty of warning that the AdBlue tank is running low. The AdBlue™ tank will need to be refilled with a minimum of approximately 3-5 litres of AdBlue™ before the vehicle will start. However, it is not uncommon for some makes and models to require a full tank of AdBlue™, and some vehicles may also need the system purged and reset.AdBlue is a diesel exhaust fluid used in vehicles to help reduce the amount of harmful gases being released. If you have questions regarding AdBlue, such as how long its shelf life is, or whether you can dilute it before adding to your vehicle, check out our Motoring FAQs.Never overfill the system, either. This situation can create a vacuum within the tank that prevents the AdBlue from being injected into the exhaust. Consequentially, the AdBlue light may remain illuminated after filling. The AdBlue pump and circuitry are located on top of the tank in some cars.Halfords trained experts will check your AdBlue levels. Safely refill the AdBlue tank to the appropriate level. Ensures your vehicle continues to run efficiently and remains environmentally friendly.