Features of AdBlue in vehicles with diesel engines. Can we call it fuel?

Ecology has been a major topic in the automotive world for many years. Strict emission standards, coupled with the development of passenger car electrification, mean that the cleanliness in relation to cars is changing in all cases. At some point, it was noticed that it was impossible to limit the emission of negative toxic compounds formed during the combustion of crude oil indefinitely only by filters. That's why these cars use AdBlue. In this article you will find everything about AdBlue fuel. 

What is AdBlue used for and what is it?

Demineralized water and urea together form an AdBlue solution.. They occur in a ratio of 32,5 to 67,5, most of which is water. The purpose of the finished product is to eliminate the toxins produced by burning crude oil in the engine compartment. In addition to the fluid itself, an SCR system is also required. Responsible for exhaust gas treatment catalyst and it is he who uses AdBlue to work properly. Due to the composition of AdBlue, it is an unpleasant smelling substance.

Where is the AdBlue tank located in cars?

When looking at your car, especially when refueling, you may notice a blue (in a significant number of cases) plug that closes the filler cap. If it is not blue, you will definitely find inscription and markings on it. In some vehicles, you will not find a filler neck next to the one used for refueling. This is due to the fact that in some car models (for example, Mercedes and Land Rover), AdBlue fluid is poured into the tank located under the hood through a funnel. For selected Seat and Peugeot models, you will find the plug in the luggage compartment.

AdBlue fuel - can this liquid be called that?

Absolutely not. Why? It's very simple, just look at the definition of the word "fuel". This is a substance that, when burned, releases energy that allows you to control a machine or device. The fuel is correctly referred to as, for example, gasoline, liquefied petroleum gas, or crude oil. However, the solution in question is not mixed with diesel and is not fed into the combustion chamber. Its task is to eliminate toxins in the SCR catalytic converter. When an aqueous solution of urea and demineralized water are injected there, water, nitrogen oxides and a small amount of carbon dioxide are formed. It is for this reason that AdBlue cannot be called a fuel..

Where to buy AdBlue? The price of a solution of carbamide filled in diesel

AdBlue is sold at petrol stations. Currently, you can find two varieties distributed to drivers. One of them is located in the zone of refueling with other types of fuel and comes directly from the fuel dispenser. How much does AdBlue cost in this edition? Usually the price of AdBlue fluctuates between 1,8-2 euros. Considering that the capacity of the tanks varies from ten to several dozen liters, the price of a full filling should not exceed 40/5 euros.

These facts are perfectly acceptable, but when you want to fill up AdBlue at the station, you may notice that the only option available is canisters with a capacity of 5 to 20 liters. The price of such a product can reach 1 PLN per 4 liter.

How often should I fill up with AdBlue? When to replenish?

What's the good news about this product? Firstly, AdBlue consumption is not as sharp as in the case of fuel. The tank is filled "under the cork" with catalytic AdBlue should not run out before 10 kilometers. This means that in most cases you will not have to fill it up more than once or twice a year. With such a frequency of refueling, you can generally forget about the need for this event.

Fortunately, AdBlue passenger cars dieselequipped with liquid ingress warning system. Also, they don't report it when it's out. Drivers notice that from the moment the indicator lights up, a significant loss of fluid is still enough to drive several hundred kilometers.

Benefits of using AdBlue

It is undeniable that NOx (as AdBlue is called) helps reduce harmful exhaust emissions in diesel engines. Therefore, by using this chemical liquid, you also care about the environment. And maybe the one or two cars you use are insignificant on a global scale, but given the global use of this solution, it could have a big impact on air quality.

Another issue is the reduction of diesel fuel consumption. It may not be so diametrically different, because it is contained in 5 percent, but it is always something. In addition, AdBlue vehicles entering certain areas of the city may qualify for toll discounts..

AdBlue solution and related problems

While this is actually a very good solution for reducing unwanted and toxic substances in diesel vehicles, it can cause some problems. What are they about? First of all, it is not a substance resistant to very low temperatures. AdBlue usually freezes when the thermometer reads below -11 degrees Celsius.. And it does not help with the operation of such a vehicle. Fortunately, manufacturers are aware of this and install special heating systems in tanks that can change the state of the frozen liquid in a few minutes.

Effect of AdBlue on metals

Another problem is the effect of AdBlue on metals. Due to the strong corrosive effect, great care must be taken when filling fluid when the cap is located at the fuel filler neck. If you accidentally spill a little substance on the bodywork, wipe it dry immediately. You will want to do this not only because of the spill, but also because of the strong and repulsive smell. Another thing is that if you run out of fluid in the tank, you will not start your car. Therefore, it is better to take care of its addition. 

AdBlue system failures

Finally, of course, possible failures, because they also do not bypass this system. As a result of freezing, crystals form in the AdBlue liquid, which can damage the injector and the plastic pump. These components are expensive and not easy to replace.

When you see the AdBlue label on the car you want to buy, you don't have to worry too much. Remember, however, that it may happen that the system will give you problems if it is not used properly.