Everything You Need to Know About AdBlue
Posted in Servicing Insights
Everything You Need to Know About AdBlue
Over the past few years, environmental rules have tightened up, pushing car manufacturers to get creative with cleaner, greener technology.
If you drive a diesel, you’ve probably heard of AdBlue, but what is it? And why are we adding this mystery liquid to our cars?
What is AdBlue?
AdBlue is a diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) that helps cut down harmful emissions from diesel engines.
Despite its name, AdBlue is actually a clear solution made from about 32.5% automotive-grade urea and 67.5% deionized water. It’s stored in a separate tank and gets injected into your vehicle’s exhaust system as part of a process called Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR).
The process converts harmful nitrogen oxides (NOx) into a less environmentally impactful mix of nitrogen and gaseous water. Reducing nitrogen oxide emissions is important as it is a major contributor to air pollution, causing respiratory problems and environmental damage.
AdBlue helps modern diesel vehicles meet stringent global emissions standards.
How Does AdBlue Work?
Firstly, let’s clear up some misconceptions:
- AdBlue is not added directly to your diesel tank
- AdBlue is not combined with the diesel in your engine.
Here’s what it actually does:
- AdBlue is added and stored in its own tank.
- The SCR technology injects small amounts of AdBlue into the exhaust, interacting with the exhaust gases from your engine.
- At the high temperatures achieved in the exhaust manifold, AdBlue decomposes into ammonia (NH3) and carbon dioxide (CO2)
- The ammonia reacts with nitrogen oxides in the exhaust to convert them into harmless nitrogen (N2) and water vapour (H2O)
That’s it! Your vehicle runs cleaner and stays compliant with emissions laws.
Plus, AdBlue is safe for your engine and won’t harm any vehicle components when used properly.
Do I Need AdBlue?
If you drive a diesel vehicle with SCR technology, then yes, you’ll need AdBlue.
Vehicles that AdBlue are commonly used in include:
- Passenger cars
- Heavy-duty trucks and buses
- Agricultural and construction equipment
- Industrial machinery
Models sold at Motorama that require AdBlue include:
- Ford Everest
- Ford Ranger Wildtrak X
- Ford Transit Custom
- Ford tourneo (upcoming)
- Mitsubishi Triton
- Toyota LandCruiser Prado
Not sure if your car needs AdBlue?
Check your owner’s manual or look for a blue filler cap – it’s usually near your fuel cap or under the hood.
AdBlue plays a vital role in reducing emissions and keeping your diesel engines compliant, so if your car needs AdBlue, it probably won’t start without it.
Where do I Get AdBlue?
Fortunately for diesel owners, AdBlue is available from various automotive-oriented retailers. The best places to find AdBlue are:
Service Stations
You'll find AdBlue in a bottle at the servo in the little automotive section next to the engine oils and car wash products.
At many service stations - primarily those tailored to trucks - you can pump AdBlue straight from the bowser just like you would with your regular fuel tank.
Automotive Stores
Retailers like Repco, Supercheap Auto and even Bunnings stock a range of bottled AdBlue products.
Motorama Service Centre
Our service centres stock AdBlue so we can top up your car when you need it.
If your car is showing a low AdBlue warning, simply get in touch with our service team to book your car in for a refill.
How do I Refill AdBlue?
Refilling AdBlue is simple and like topping up your vehicle with any other fluid. Here are some tips:
Check AdBlue levels regularly
Buy the right fluid
Locate the tank
Refill safely
Dont fret!
If all this is too much hassle for you, don't fret - the Motorama Service team can take care of it. Be aware that most manufacturers have designated AdBlue as an owner-maintained item along the same lines as fuel and tyre pressures.
It's generally not on the list of serviceable items, meaning that you'll have to approve the refill if you're notified during a service and it'll cost a little extra on top of your service fee.
When you get your car serviced at Motorama, we check your AdBlue levels and let you know if you require a top up - or if you've had the low AdBlue level warning on your dash, you can also request a refill.
If you’re still unsure or have any questions about AdBlue, visit your closest Motorama dealership and discuss your concerns with our friendly service team.
