What is AdBlue?
AdBlue is a biodegradable, highly purified, and non-toxic diesel exhaust fuel (DEF), also referred to as AUS32, designed to reduce the nitrogen oxide emission of vehicles and make them meet the 2016 Euro 6 exhaust emission regulation. The use of AdBlue is a legal requirement for a Heavy Good Vehicle, which is above 7.5 tonnes.
Does AdBlue Expire?
After about a year, the deionised water and urea in the AdBlue begin to degrade, leading to its expiration. AdBlue’s main purpose is to lower emissions of the vehicle; therefore, it must be in the best condition. If you utilise AdBlue in a car after degrading, it will harm the engine more than it helps.
AdBlue’s lifespan can be marginally increased with caution; it can be kept securely stored for up to 18 months.
How do you know AdBlue has expired?
A sell-by date will be printed on every AdBlue container, typically on the bottle’s bottom or side. After this time, AdBlue shouldn’t be bought or used by consumers.
There are some indicators which show that AdBlue is no longer suitable to use:
- Change in smell
- Change in colour
- Formation of particles and crystals
How long does AdBlue last?
The AdBlue in the tank would be fine if a car were left idle for a whole year. The AdBlue tank is covered by a cap on it, but it will still start degradation usually after 12 months. If you are concerned about how long it has been sitting, take your vehicle to the garage; they will drain and dispose of the AdBlue securely.
The AdBlue system in each car varies significantly; in one vehicle, the AdBlue would last 12 months before reaching the end of its useful life, while in another, the deterioration process won’t have even begun.
If we look at distance coverage, a full tank of AdBlue will cover around 6,000-7,000 miles. The mileage can vary depending on the size of the DE Fluid tank on your car.
How to store AdBlue?
Stocking up on DEF is unnecessary unless you drive a lot because DEF is widely available. It is not necessary to keep more than one bottle of AdBlue on hand, although you could keep one if you worry about running out. However, the following advice can assist AdBlue last longer while being stored:
- Don’t let the container freeze
- Do not open
- Keep in a dry place
- Store away from sunlight
With a little caution, AdBlue’s lifespan can be increased to about 18 months. AdBlue will freeze at -11 degrees Celsius, so it’s crucial not to let the container freeze. DEF should be stored between 0 and 30 degrees Celsius. Moreover, the sun’s UV radiation destroys and degrades the solution, so it should be stored away from the sunlight.
What happens if my car runs out of AdBlue?
If AdBlue runs out while driving, the vehicle’s performance and engine power will reach the “Limp Home” mode to reduce emissions. Once the vehicle’s engine stops, it will fail to start without AdBlue refilling.
