top of page
Added AdBlue to diesel fuel tank

DIESEL IN ADBLUE TANK BY MISTAKE? WE CAN HELP - ANYTIME, ANYWHERE

If diesel fuel has been accidentally added to the AdBlue (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) tank in a vehicle, it's important to address the situation promptly to avoid potential damage to the vehicle's emissions control system and engine.

Here's what you should do if diesel has been added to the AdBlue tank:

​

  1. Stop Using the Vehicle: If you realize that diesel has been added to the AdBlue tank, stop using the vehicle immediately. Running the engine with diesel in the AdBlue tank can cause damage to the emissions control system and other components.

  2. Do Not Start the Engine: Avoid starting the engine, as this could circulate the incorrect fluid further into the system.

  3. Contact a Professional: Contact our customer support immediately to discuss the situation. We can provide guidance on the appropriate steps to take and may recommend a certified service center for repairs.

  4. Drain and Clean the System: The AdBlue tank and related components will need to be drained and cleaned thoroughly to remove the diesel fuel. This is a delicate procedure that should be performed by trained professionals to prevent further damage.

  5. Inspect and Repair: After the diesel fuel has been removed, the mechanics will need to inspect the emissions control system and related components for any damage that may have occurred due to the diesel contamination. Repairs or replacements may be necessary.

  6. Refill with Correct Fluid: Once the system has been properly cleaned and inspected, refill the AdBlue tank with the correct AdBlue solution.

  7. Test and Monitor: The vehicle should be tested to ensure that the emissions control system is functioning correctly after the repairs. Monitoring the vehicle's performance for a period of time can help ensure that there are no lingering issues.

 

Remember that diesel fuel and AdBlue are chemically different substances with specific roles in the vehicle's operation. Diesel fuel in the AdBlue tank can lead to improper functioning of the vehicle's emissions control system and damage to various components.

To prevent such mistakes, always make sure to double-check the fueling procedures and verify that you are using the correct fluids for the designated tanks in your vehicle.

WHAT CAN GO WRONG WITH PUTTING DIESEL IN ADBLUE TANK

Putting diesel fuel into the AdBlue (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) tank in a vehicle is a serious mistake and can lead to several potential problems and complications. Here are some of the issues that can arise from putting diesel in the AdBlue tank:

  1. Damage to Emissions Control System: AdBlue is a crucial component of a vehicle's emissions control system, specifically the Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system. Diesel fuel in the AdBlue tank can damage the SCR system, including the SCR catalyst and the components responsible for injecting and distributing AdBlue.

  2. Engine Performance Issues: When diesel fuel is introduced into the AdBlue system, it can disrupt the correct operation of the engine and emissions control system. This may result in reduced engine performance, increased emissions of harmful pollutants, and poor fuel efficiency.

  3. Warning Lights and Error Codes: Most vehicles equipped with SCR systems have onboard diagnostic systems that will detect problems related to AdBlue. This can trigger warning lights on the dashboard and generate error codes in the vehicle's computer system.

  4. Costly Repairs: Repairing the damage caused by putting diesel in the AdBlue tank can be expensive. It may involve draining and cleaning the AdBlue system, replacing damaged components, and potentially repairing or replacing the SCR catalyst.

  5. Reduced Vehicle Reliability: The damage caused by using the wrong fluid in the AdBlue tank can result in reduced vehicle reliability and the potential for breakdowns or malfunctions.

  6. Voided Warranties: Using the wrong fluid in the AdBlue tank may void certain warranties, as it constitutes misuse or negligence. It's important to check your vehicle's warranty terms and conditions for details.

  7. Environmental Impact: Adding diesel fuel to the AdBlue tank can result in increased emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx), which are harmful pollutants that SCR systems are designed to reduce. This can have environmental consequences and potentially lead to regulatory issues.

 

To avoid these problems, always take care to use the correct fluids and follow the manufacturer's guidelines when refueling your vehicle. Diesel fuel should go into the diesel fuel tank, while AdBlue should be added to the dedicated AdBlue tank. If you accidentally put diesel in the AdBlue tank, it's crucial to seek professional assistance promptly to assess and address the damage to your vehicle's emissions control system and restore its proper operation.

AdBlue in diesel fuel tank recovery
bottom of page