Using AdBlue in diesel cars is one of the most important features of modern engines. This liquid is used for reducing pollution, since it transforms nitrogen oxides (harmful gases produced by engines) into nitrogen and water vapor–which don’t damage. However, its functioning depends on the existence of a constant flow of AdBlue. Many drivers don’t know this liquid is not any liquid, it’s a fundamental element to have emissions under control and care for the engine in the long term.
A mechanic called Juan José warned about not being normal, that the AdBlue tank is full for 2 or 3 years without being used. In fact, the system is designed so that the liquid is consumed little by little and if it is not used, that’s when problems happen and you will also notice it in your pocket. So, let’s find out more about how we can avoid future issues with this liquid.
The role of the AdBlue in diesel cars
The AdBlue tank’s mission is to feed the system in charge of dealing with polluting gases and, this way, the car follows the current environmental rules. Every time the car is working, the liquid should circulate and be consumed, maintaining a balance in the whole system.
When this doesn’t occur, the flow that makes sure the AdBlue properly works is interrupted.
What happens if the AdBlue tank doesn’t empty?
If the AdBlue stays for too long in the tank without circulating, it can happen several negative effects:
- Stagnation: The liquid remains unused and doesn’t fulfill its purpose.
- Water evaporation: Over time, part of the water in AdBlue evaporates.
- Urea concentration increases: The mixture becomes too dense and unbalanced.
- Crystallization: Crystals can form inside the tank and in the system’s pipes.
- Costly damage: These crystals may cause failures that are very expensive to repair.
This is why the mechanic insists that what we should really worry about is that the AdBlue is consumed normally.
Recommendations to maintain the AdBlue tank
The mechanic offers some simple tips to avoid some troubles:
- Monitor consumption: It’s normal for the liquid to be consumed gradually. If it doesn’t, pay attention.
- If you drive very little: Empty and refill the tank from time to time. It doesn’t need a deep cleaning, but renewing the liquid prevents it from stagnating.
- Use an anti-crystallizing additive: This helps AdBlue circulate smoothly, clean the system, and prevent crystals from forming. It also creates a protective layer inside the pipes so urea doesn’t stick and cause damage.
These are very simple actions, but they are very useful to expand the life of the AdBlue system and prevent future expensive repairs.
Alert signs when using the AdBlue
The clearest advice from the mechanic is that a full tank for years is a bad sign. So, if this happens, it means that the system is not working as it should because in normal conditions the liquid must always show a progressive consumption.
Paying attention to this signal is a very simple way to care for the engine and, mostly, avoid problems related to crystallization.
Basically…
AdBlue is essential in modern diesel engines because it reduces pollution, which is great since we should care about the environment and technology is advancing to be friendlier with it. However, you have an important role when using this special liquid: you should check it from time to time to make sure it’s doing its job properly and avoid expensive repairs. Nobody likes spending a fortune on things like that, right? So, if you are a current diesel car owner, we hope this article, and the mechanic’s advice, was helpful.