We receive several calls with a variety of problems, but one common engine-related call involves AdBlue. Poor handling, putting it in the diesel tank by accident, and contamination are all common AdBlue problems, and these hiccups can cause severe damage to your equipment, incurring high repair costs in the process. Prevention is the best cure, follow our helpful tips below to avoid such problems.
Avoid AdBlue Problems with Careful Handling
AdBlue is an emissions control solution that reduces nitrogen oxide emissions in diesel engines. It’s a liquid that looks like water and is sprayed through into the exhaust before it exits the device.
AdBlue problems can be avoided with proper handling. It’s always a good idea to read the manufacturer’s instructions before handling anything. AdBlue should be preserved in stainless steel or plastic containers in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight. It’s worth noting that AdBlue will freeze at temperatures below -10oC, turning it into a soupy mess, but this does not affect performance or quality. If it’s going to be kept cold, use an expandable container to accommodate its volume. When it reaches freezing, the temperature rises by 7%. Although AdBlue degrades naturally over time, it can last for up to a year.
Don’t Mix Your AdBlue
One of the most critical points to emphasise is that AdBlue should never be mixed with diesel. If a machine is started with AdBlue in the fuel lines, the device can be seriously damaged, resulting in large costly repairs.
Because the fuel and AdBlue tanks on some construction equipment are close to one another, this can easily lead to confusion. However, keep in mind that AdBlue has its filling access point. The AdBlue tank cap is blue, and the fill hole is typically smaller in diameter than the fuel opening. To avoid potential damage, drain and flush the tank with deionised water or clean AdBlue fluid if you are ever in doubt that the correct filling port was used.
Keep Your AdBlue Clean
Because absolute purity is required for AdBlue to perform optimally, it is susceptible to contamination. Contaminants can easily enter the fluid through the tank cap space, causing damage and, as a result, long, operational errors for the device. AdBlue is extremely sensitive to contamination.
If the fill cap area is not thoroughly cleaned before adding fluid, dirt and dust can easily be washed down into the tank. Inform your mechanic that contamination must be avoided and that cleaning around the cap before use is critical. Storage of AdBlue in a dedicated container is also recommended. Do not use containers that have previously held other materials or fluids, even if they have been thoroughly cleaned.
An increase in AdBlue consumption, a malfunctioning selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system, or simply the engine shutting down are all signs that your AdBlue is contaminated. The ideal urea-based AdBlue concentration is 32.5-37 per cent. These issues may arise if this ratio is out of balance, indicating contamination. Use a digital refractometer to test and monitor the purity of your AdBlue.
AdBlue Removal
AdBlue is used in vehicles to help reduce emissions, which is why AdBlue systems are standard on all new vehicles. However, there are some drawbacks to having an Adblue system in your vehicle, as well as some significant benefits to choosing AdBlue removal as an option for you to enjoy.
AdBlue removal is a process that lowers the vehicle’s operating costs by improving fuel efficiency while also lowering the cost of repair associated with having an AdBlue system. The AdBlue removal method allows your vehicle to communicate with the operational AdBlue system even when it is turned off.
Our Services
We have trusted experts with years of experience in ECU remapping and AdBlue problems and removal at ECU Flash. We always give our customers options when it comes to their AdBlue warning lights or any other issues. The AdBlue system can be completely removed if you drive an off-road vehicle. Also, if your vehicle is exported outside of the EU. While AdBlue systems are great for lowering emissions, they can cause problems for many drivers due to high repair costs and speed restrictions.
If your vehicle requires AdBlue, failure to use it may result in a fine. To prevent your engine from entering the limp mode, our expert engineers can create custom software programming (something that activates when the engine picks up a fault). Contact our experts today to schedule a time to discuss the additional benefits of AdBlue removal for your vehicle. Please visit our contacts page to find out how we can help with your AdBlue problems. You can also find us on Facebook.
