What is AdBlue in Vehicles and How to Fix AdBlue Issues?

AdBlue is a fluid used in the emission systems of modern diesel vehicles. It helps reduce the vehicle's exhaust emissions, making them less harmful to the environment. Especially with increasing environmental regulations in Europe and other countries, the use of AdBlue has become more common. So, what exactly is AdBlue, how does it work, and what should you do when there's an issue with this fluid? Here's everything you need to know about AdBlue and how to address potential problems.

What is AdBlue?

AdBlue is actually a brand name, but it’s commonly used to refer to all types of this fluid. AdBlue is made of urea and deionized water. It is used in the vehicle's exhaust gas recirculation system (SCR system - Selective Catalytic Reduction) to clean harmful nitrogen oxides (NOx) from the engine’s exhaust. When mixed with exhaust gases, AdBlue transforms the nitrogen oxides into harmless components (water and nitrogen).

How Does AdBlue Work?

AdBlue is a special fluid added to the vehicle and functions through an SCR catalyst in the exhaust system. The SCR system chemically cleans harmful NOx components in the exhaust gases with the addition of AdBlue fluid. This process reduces the amount of toxic gases released into the environment and helps make the vehicle more eco-friendly.

AdBlue is used through a dedicated tank in the vehicle during operation. When the AdBlue fluid runs out, the vehicle’s performance may be affected, and in some cases, warning lights may appear.

What is an AdBlue Fault and How to Recognize It?

Issues with the AdBlue system generally arise from a low fluid level, deteriorated fluid quality, or malfunctioning pumps and injectors. The main symptoms of AdBlue issues in vehicles can include:

• AdBlue Warning Light: A warning light related to AdBlue may appear on the dashboard, indicating that the fluid level is low or there’s a system malfunction.

• Decreased Engine Performance: When the AdBlue fluid is depleted, the engine may run less efficiently, and performance loss may occur.

• Exhaust Emission Problems: If the AdBlue system isn't functioning properly, the vehicle’s exhaust emissions may be higher, which can harm the environment.

How to Fix AdBlue Issues?

Most AdBlue-related issues stem from a few common causes that prevent the system from working properly. Here are some steps you can take to resolve AdBlue problems:

1. Check the AdBlue Fluid Level
   Running out of AdBlue fluid is usually the most common cause of problems. Check the AdBlue level in your vehicle. If the fluid is low, refill the tank with the appropriate AdBlue fluid. It’s important to use the AdBlue that your vehicle manufacturer recommends, as low-quality fluids can cause malfunctions in the system.

2. Check the AdBlue Pump and Injector System
   If the fluid level is fine and you still face issues, the AdBlue pump or injector system might be malfunctioning. This type of issue typically requires professional service. A faulty pump or injector may prevent the fluid from being properly injected into the engine.

3. Check the SCR Catalyst
   The SCR catalyst, one of the main components of the AdBlue system, plays a crucial role in cleaning exhaust gases. Any blockages or dirt in this part can lead to the AdBlue system malfunctioning. In this case, cleaning or replacing the catalyst may be necessary.

4. Use an On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) System to Detect the Fault
   If your vehicle displays an AdBlue warning, you can use an OBD (On-Board Diagnostics) device to diagnose the problem. This device will pull error codes from the vehicle’s computer system and help you identify the source of the issue. This step is especially useful in diagnosing more complex faults.

5. Reset the AdBlue System
   In some vehicles, when the AdBlue fluid runs out or a fault occurs in the system, the system may need to be reset. This can help clear the warning light on the dashboard. However, resetting the system does not solve the underlying problem—it only temporarily turns off the warning light. The real solution is to address the root cause of the issue.

Conclusion

AdBlue is an important component that helps modern diesel vehicles operate in an environmentally friendly way. However, any issues with this system can affect your vehicle’s performance and increase exhaust emissions. When the AdBlue fluid runs out, the system malfunctions, or engine performance drops, you can follow the steps above to resolve the problem. Remember, issues with AdBlue often require professional intervention, so seeking help from an expert to diagnose and fix the issues is a good idea.