If you own a diesel car, you may have heard of AdBlue. But what is AdBlue, and do you need it? AdBlue is a liquid solution consisting of urea and deionised water that is used in diesel engines to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. In this article, we will explore what AdBlue is, how it works, and whether or not your diesel car needs it.
What Is Adblue?
AdBlue is a non-toxic, colourless, and odourless liquid solution that is made up of 32.5% urea and 67.5% deionised water. It is used in Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems in diesel engines to reduce NOx emissions. AdBlue is injected into the exhaust gases, which then react with the SCR catalyst to convert NOx into harmless nitrogen and water vapour.
How Does Adblue Work?
AdBlue works by converting harmful NOx emissions into harmless nitrogen and water vapour. When AdBlue is injected into the exhaust gases, it reacts with the SCR catalyst to break down the NOx molecules into nitrogen and water vapour. This process is known as Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR). AdBlue is only effective when used in conjunction with an SCR system.
Do All Diesel Cars Need Adblue?
Not all diesel cars require AdBlue. AdBlue is only required in diesel cars that have an SCR system installed. SCR systems are typically found in newer diesel cars, particularly those that meet Euro 6 emissions standards. If your diesel car was manufactured before 2015, it is unlikely to require AdBlue.
How Often Do You Need to Refill Adblue?
The frequency of AdBlue refills will depend on the make and model of your diesel car and your driving habits. Most diesel cars will require a refill of AdBlue every 6,000 to 12,000 miles. However, some cars may require more frequent refills if they are driven in heavy traffic or if they are used for towing.
Where Can You Buy Adblue?
AdBlue can be purchased from most petrol stations and automotive supply stores. It is available in various container sizes, ranging from small bottles to large drums. You must purchase AdBlue that meets the ISO 22241 standard to ensure that it is safe and effective for use in your diesel car.
What Happens If You Run Out of Adblue?
If you run out of AdBlue, your diesel car’s SCR system will no longer be able to reduce NOx emissions effectively. This could result in your car failing its MOT emissions test and potentially damaging the environment. Many diesel cars have warning lights or messages that alert you when your AdBlue levels run low. It is essential to top up AdBlue as soon as possible to ensure that your car remains compliant with emissions regulations.
Benefits of Using Adblue
In addition to reducing harmful NOx emissions, there are several benefits to using AdBlue in your diesel car. Firstly, using AdBlue can help improve your car’s fuel efficiency, allowing the engine to operate at a more efficient temperature. This can result in lower fuel consumption and reduced running costs. Secondly, using AdBlue can help to prolong the life of your car’s engine and exhaust system, as it reduces the amount of harmful pollutants that can damage these components.
Conclusion
AdBlue is an essential component of modern diesel cars that use SCR systems to reduce NOx emissions. Not all diesel cars require AdBlue, but if your car has an SCR system, it is crucial to ensure that you refill AdBlue regularly to prevent emissions-related issues. AdBlue is widely available and easy to use, and it can help to reduce harmful emissions and protect the environment.
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