Diesel Vehicles and AdBlue: Important Information

Note: If you run out and need assistance, you will be charged!

AdBlue is a fluid designed to reduce exhaust emissions from diesel engines, helping them comply with Euro 6 emissions standards. It is made of a solution of urea and deionised water and has no adverse effects on fuel consumption.

AdBlue is sprayed into the exhaust system of cars equipped with Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology, which reduces nitrous oxide emissions.

Most cars (and vans) using AdBlue have a gauge on the dashboard that warns you when your tank is running low; it’s essential to keep an eye on this so you don’t run out.

Fortunately, it’s quite easy to purchase more AdBlue – major retailers such as Halfords sell it in both bulk and individual containers.


What Happens if I Run out Of AdBlue?

If you run out of AdBlue while driving, the engine’s performance will be reduced to limit emissions. Once stopped, you cannot restart the engine if the AdBlue tank is empty.

The car or van will give you plenty of warning that the AdBlue tank’s running low. You will usually see a text warning on the dashboard at around 1500 miles to go followed by an amber warning light.


Which Vehicles Use AdBlue?

Not all car manufacturers use AdBlue technology. But it is very likely that if you have got a diesel vehicle from Jaguar, Land Rover or any French or German manufacturer, new from 2015, it will use AdBlue.


AdBlue (def) Diesel Exhaust Fluid, Examples of Warning Lights:

Look for AdBlue warning notifications shown on your dashboard display:

Adblue (DEF) Refill is usually next to the fuel filler and is a blue cap (see below for example).
This can be purchased at fuel filling station outlets.