What is AdBlue® and how does it work?
AdBlue® is a highly pure, water-clear urea solution (32.5 percent urea in demineralized water) according to ISO 22241. In the exhaust system, AdBlue is injected in fine doses upstream of the SCR catalytic converter, thermally converted into ammonia, where it reduces harmful nitrogen oxides to water vapor and elemental nitrogen. The result is significantly lower NOx emissions, cleaner diesel operation and compliance with current emissions standards.
Is my vehicle equipped with SCR and AdBlue®?
You can tell whether your vehicle uses AdBlue® from the manufacturer's information and from a separate filler neck with a blue cap for the AdBlue tank. AdBlue is used in almost all modern diesels with an SCR catalytic converter and has been standard since Euro 5 and consistently since Euro 6. If you are unsure, check the logbook and service booklet or the opening next to the diesel connection, in the engine compartment or in the trunk, depending on the model.
Where is the AdBlue® tank located?
Depending on the manufacturer, the AdBlue® tank can be located in different places. The filler neck is often located directly next to the diesel fuel filler neck behind the fuel filler flap. Alternatively, it is located in the engine compartment - where it should not be confused with the blue washer fluid cap - or in the trunk behind a service cover. Vehicles with larger AdBlue supplies often have the tank installed in the underbody, but the filler neck remains accessible as described.
How is AdBlue® refilled and how much do I need?
Refilling is done via the AdBlue® filler neck, never via the fuel tank. Use the included flex spout for clean, drip-free filling. Our 5 liter canisters have the spout integrated into the top of the canister lid, the 10 liter canisters have it on the back under the label, which you simply peel off. Depending on the driving profile and engine type, consumption is on average around 4 to 7 percent of diesel consumption. Anyone who drives 6 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers typically needs around 0.25 to 0.4 liters of AdBlue per 100 kilometers. The on-board menu warns in good time about low levels; then refill quickly to avoid performance limitations or refusal to start.
How long does AdBlue® last?
Under optimal conditions, AdBlue® has a shelf life of up to 12 months. The decisive factors are airtight, opaque original packaging, clean storage without contamination and a temperature range between 0 °C and 30 °C. Direct sunlight, extreme heat, frost or dirt shorten the shelf life. Check the manufacturing date on the container, use older canisters first and, if in doubt, buy fresh goods. If there are precipitations, an unusual smell or visible particles, the product should no longer be used.
What happens if the AdBlue® tank is empty?
If the AdBlue® level drops too low, warning messages and remaining range appear on the display. If AdBlue is completely used up, many vehicles initially limit the engine power; When restarting, the start can even be blocked until sufficient AdBlue has been refilled. This procedure is required by law to ensure emission limit values. It is therefore advisable to always have a safety supply in the trunk and not to ignore warnings.
How do I store AdBlue® correctly so that the quality is maintained?
Store AdBlue® in a cool, dry and dark place in the tightly closed original packaging. A shady room between 0 °C and 30 °C, away from heat sources, frost and direct sun, is ideal. Avoid contact with dust, oils, fuels or metals that may contaminate the solution. After opening, use the container promptly and close it again neatly. Rinse spilled drops with water, remove dried crystals with a damp cloth.
How do I fill my vehicle cleanly and without spilling?
Unscrew the blue cap on the filler neck, place the flex spout firmly onto the canister and insert it into the opening. Hold the canister slightly elevated and fill slowly to avoid air bubbles. On vehicles with a non-return valve, the spout must engage far enough. Stop in time to avoid overfilling and wipe up any drips. Then start the engine so that the system recognizes the new level; with some manufacturers this can take a few minutes.
How do I recognize high-quality AdBlue®?
Pay attention to ISO 22241 conformity, clean, sealed containers and clear labeling of origin. Fresh goods with a clearly legible production date, an intact lid and an undamaged seal are mandatory. Reputable suppliers supply suitable pourers and provide storage instructions. Turbidity, particles or odors are exclusion criteria. High-quality AdBlue® protects the injection nozzle, SCR catalytic converter and pump from deposits and extends the life of the exhaust aftertreatment.
How much AdBlue® should I buy at once?
Anyone who travels a lot will benefit from 10 liter canisters or larger containers, provided the storage conditions are right. Occasional drivers should choose smaller units and buy fresh more often in order to make optimal use of the shelf life. A spare canister is practical for longer journeys, especially if the AdBlue® infrastructure along the route is thin.
Can I use AdBlue® in any diesel?
AdBlue® is only intended for diesel vehicles with an SCR system. It must not be filled into vehicles without SCR technology and never into the fuel tank. For commercial vehicles, vans and cars with SCR, AdBlue is compatible across manufacturers as long as it complies with the ISO 22241 standard. For special vehicles, check the information in the manual.
Why is AdBlue® important for the environment and health?
With AdBlue®, the SCR system drastically reduces nitrogen oxide emissions and thus contributes to cleaner air, fewer ozone precursors and better health protection in cities. At the same time, the technology helps to safely comply with legal limits without sacrificing the efficiency advantages of modern diesel engines.
Where can I find practical information about pourers and accessories?
Our 5 liter canisters contain the flex spout in the lid recess on the top, the 10 liter canisters have it behind the label on the back. Carefully tear off the label, remove the spout and place it firmly in place. When refilling regularly, reusable filling hoses and gloves are recommended to safely avoid drips.
Which mistakes should I definitely avoid?
Never fill AdBlue® into the diesel tank and never fill diesel into the AdBlue® tank. Do not dilute AdBlue, do not mix it with other liquids and do not store it in metal containers that have not been approved. Do not use opened, heavily aged or contaminated goods. Clean spills immediately with water and avoid crystal formation at the filling opening.
How do I integrate AdBlue® into my maintenance routine?
Check the level regularly, schedule refills for oil changes or seasonal service, and don't drive alerts to the last mile. Keep a suitable canister in the vehicle, especially before vacation trips. With these simple routines, exhaust aftertreatment remains reliable and efficient.
Where can I get reliable AdBlue® and advice?
Obtain AdBlue® from specialized dealers with clear ISO 22241 information, fresh goods and suitable accessories. Reputable providers will support you with questions about consumption, storage, shelf life, filling positions and compatible vehicles and help you avoid typical errors so that your SCR system works cleanly over the long term.