ADBLUE is a fluid designed to limit the number of harmful emissions produced by diesel cars on UK roads.
Here, we look at how it works and where it is available.
AdBlue pumps are slowly increasing across UK petrol stationsAP
What is AdBlue?
AdBlue us a fluid sprayed into the exhaust system of diesel powered cars to reduce the spread of nitrous oxide emissions.
But many drivers are unaware they even need it in their cars because it’s normally topped up as part of a regular annual service.
However, reports suggest high-mileage are churning the solution quicker and are having to fill it up themselves.
Mercedes even came underfire for potentially switching off the tech in emissions tests to try and make tanks last longer.
What are the AdBlue tanks at petrol stations?
Most big-name service stations will have AdBlue.
Many of them sell portable containers as well in the event of needing it when not near a filling station.
AdBlue is available in a container to top it up yourself like screenwash or oil – but the easiest way is through a tank at a petrol station with an AdBlue entry point often next to your diesel filler cap.
When your tank is running dry, you’ll get a warning light on the dash – and you shouldn’t ignore it.
It is important to stop between services and fill up with AdBlue, as otherwise the engine on your diesel powered car will be limited in power in order to stop the spread of harmful emissions, something newer models do automatically.
How does AdBlue work?
AdBlue is made from urea and deionised water, used in cars with selective catalytic reduction (SCR) tech.
SCR is one of the latest ways to keep nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions down within legal limits.
It reduces potentially harmful emissions into steam and nitrogen.
The liquid is stored in its own tank, separate from the diesel, before being added to exhaust gases by the car.
It accounts for up to six per cent of fuel consumption.
AdBlue is used on most Euro 6 diesels – mainly post 2014 – to keep NOx emissions down within EU laws.
Most tanks in cars are around 10 litres and should last for a whole year but if you do a lot of driving you’ll naturally use more.
If you allow your supply of AdBlue to run out, your SCR system will not be able to function, which will lead to limited performance or your engine not running at all.
Oly Richmond, CEO and founder of Servicing Stop, said: “AdBlue is an essential that most diesel cars built after 2014 require.
“It’s something that drivers of diesel will have renewed as part of their annual service but new reports suggest a whole tank is used in just a few thousand miles making AdBlue a costly accessory and toxic to the environment.
“Waiting a year for this to be renewed could be disastrous for not only the cleanliness of the air but the engine too.
“The thought of these tanks being introduced into petrol stations across the UK would help us keep a tight grip on emissions and reduce the price of the owners’ next service.”