It’s easy for a mistake to occur when adding AdBlue to a diesel fuel tank. Some newer diesels feature their own separate AdBlue tank filler near the diesel filler. It’s easy to get it wrong when you’re in a hurry, or driving an unfamiliar vehicle. AdBlue Removal however, shouldn’t be done without the proper equipment. AdBlue is specifically for the Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) emission system of the vehicle. Is not a fuel or fuel additive. When present in the fuel system, it can cause serious trouble especially if the engine is started.
The bottom line, however, is that with the proper steps taken early, further complications can be avoided. Wrong Fuel Recovers offers expert help to drivers experiencing wrong fuel and AdBlue contamination.
What Is AdBlue?
Many modern diesel vehicles have an adblue water-based urea solution to lower nitrogen oxide emissions. The fluid circulates in the SCR system of the vehicle and is kept in a tank separate from the tank containing the diesel fuel.
AdBlue is not a fuel; however, vehicles that are approved for using it require it.
Sometimes the two points for the filler can be near each other. This means that misfuelling can take place before the driver realises it.
What Happens If AdBlue Goes Into a Diesel Fuel Tank?
There is a significant difference between the way that AdBlue and diesel fuel are used, and their properties. Consequently, if AdBlue is added to the fuel tank, it could result in contamination of the vehicle’s fuel system.
The possible consequences will depend on factors including:
- The amount of AdBlue that went into the tank
- Determine whether the engine was started or not.
- Whether the vehicle was driven or not.
- The fuel system of the vehicle.
- How quickly the contamination is dealt with
In particular, AA advises drivers not to start the ignition or the engine after they’ve filled the diesel tank with AdBlue. The action could lead to costly injuries to the fuel tank, pump and injection system, it says.
That is why it is crucial to remove AdBlue in a timely fashion.
What Should You Do After Putting AdBlue in the Fuel Tank?
The first step is very easy; do not start the engine.
Do not start the vehicle if not already started. Do not turn on the ignition when a vehicle is not being used, as fuel-system components may be activated before engine start-up.
If the vehicle is in a petrol station, request assistance to transport it to a safe spot, but without starting the engine.
After that, get in touch with a wrong fuel recovery company.
Tell the technician:
- That the AdBlue went into the diesel tank.
- About how much money was used to make up the total amount?
- Whether or not ignition is turned on.
- If the engine was started or not.
- If you were driving the vehicle after that.
- Make and model of the car.
This information can aid the tech in understanding the situation prior to their visit.
Why Is Professional AdBlue Removal Important?
Handling of contaminated AdBlue needs to be done correctly. This is not the same as fueling with regular petrol/diesel.
AdBlue’s storage guidance from the Environment Agency recommends it be kept away from fuels and other fluids that are used in vehicles. It also emphasises the importance of good storage and handling practices due to the potential for adverse effects on surface water and/or groundwater.
A professional technician is then able to evaluate the car and utilize appropriate tools and equipment to drain the contaminated fluid.
If necessary, the process can include draining of the fuel tank, treatment of contaminated fuel system parts and the addition of the proper diesel fuel.
Can You Drive After Putting AdBlue in Diesel?
Do not drive the vehicle if it has been observed that AdBlue is in the diesel tank.
The contaminated mixture can circulate through the fuel system when driving. This can increase the potential for problems compared with dealing with the contamination before the engine is started.
If already driven, stop at a safe place and turn off the engine. Then arrange for professional help.
Don’t assume that the vehicle is still safe, just because it’s driving normally. Symptoms of some problems may not occur until the contaminated fluid has circulated through the system.
What If AdBlue Has Been Put in the Wrong Tank?
But there’s another AdBlue error drivers need to be aware of filling the AdBlue tank with diesel fuel.
This is different from putting AdBlue into the diesel tank. The AdBlue system is integrated into the vehicle’s emission control system, and features its own tank, pump and dosing parts.
Do not start the engine if diesel has got into the AdBlue tank. Instead, consult a professional for advice as the correct recovery method may differ from vehicle to vehicle.
The Professional AdBlue Removal Process
A professional service will usually start with a thorough investigation of the incident.
Vehicle Assessment
The technician determines the correct vehicle and the fluid they have in the wrong tank.
Contamination Assessment
The quantity of the AdBlue added and whether the engine has been started may affect the further actions.
Fluid Removal
The contents of the contaminated system(s) can be removed using specialist equipment.
System Inspection
The technician may examine affected parts to determine if further cleaning or flushing is needed.
Correct Fluid
After the contamination problem has been solved, the vehicle can be returned to the proper fuel or fluid specification.
This process varies depending on the type of vehicle. Thus, it is better for motorists to follow the instructions of a specialist technician and not a generic how-to procedure.
Can AdBlue Be Removed at the Roadside?
This is dependent on the vehicle and context.
Some wrong-fuel situations can be dealt with by a mobile recovery technician. But, if AdBlue has been contaminated, other measures may be necessary and, in some instances, recovery to an appropriate garage may be needed.
For instance, the AA reported it could have to leave vehicles being towed to a local garage due to the corrosive properties of AdBlue and the process used for its removal.
So, it is best to have a trustworthy recovery provider evaluate your situation before they guarantee that they can complete the task at the roadside.
How to Prevent an AdBlue Mistake
It’s much easier to prevent contamination.
When filling the vehicle, make sure you recognize the correct filler. Be sure to read the manual or labels on fuel fillers for any vehicles you have never driven before.
You can also:
- Before Fueling, make sure to check the fuel cap.
- Be sure to find the AdBlue filler first.
- Don’t get distracted while pumping gas.
- Do not rush while refuelling.
- Before opening the filler, double check the fluid.
- Don’t hesitate to ask for help when you’re not sure.
The AA also says to pay close attention to the pump labels and to refrain from engaging in other activities while fueling.
Why Choose Wrong Fuel Recovers?
If you need Adblue removal, you can make your situation much easier to deal with if you have professional help quickly.
Wrong Fuel Recovers offers wrong fuel recovery services to motorists that have been exposed to wrong fuel. It is designed to assist customers in situations when they have been misfuelled and not to try and tackle potentially unsafe do-it-yourself solutions.
Professional help can give:
- Expert assessment
- Wrong fuel recovery
- Fuel drainage
- Provide mobile support as appropriate.Offer mobile support if appropriate.
- Provide assistance in case of contamination with AdBlue.
- Information on what to do next
The most crucial thing is to get the details right. The technician is able to make an informed decision given the correct information.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is AdBlue removal?
AdBlue removal is a process that removes AdBlue from a vehicle’s fuel system if it was accidentally added to the incorrect fuel tank. The process should be carried out professionally as the method to be used varies according to the vehicle and contamination.
Can I drive after putting AdBlue in my diesel tank?
No, do not start or drive the car. If already started, stop safely and arrange professional help.
Can I remove AdBlue myself?
Do not remove by yourself. Fuel systems are sometimes complicated and contaminated fluids must be treated correctly. Risk of worsening can be mitigated by use of professional equipment.
What happens if I start my car after putting AdBlue in the diesel tank?
Starting the engine can recirculate AdBlue to the fuel system. This may lead to the tank, pump and injection system being damaged, which can be very costly, the AA added.
Is AdBlue the same as diesel?
No. AdBlue is a Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) for the SCR emissions technology. Must be kept away from diesel and cannot be mixed in fuel tank.
What if I put diesel in the AdBlue tank?
Never start the engine. If there is diesel contamination in the AdBlue/SCR system, seek expert advice as it might need to be treated in a different way.
How quickly should I arrange AdBlue removal?
Let the professional know immediately that you made a mistake. Do NOT start the engine until help has arrived.
Does Wrong Fuel Recovers help with AdBlue contamination?
Wrong Fuel Recovers offers expert wrong fuel recovery services, including for AdBlue contamination. This would be based on what has occurred and the vehicle.
Conclusion
Putting AdBlue into a diesel fuel tank can be a worrying experience. But, above all, keep a cool head and refrain from turning the ignition key.
Professional AdBlue removal can help you resolve contamination issues before they can be of any further concern. AdBlue is a chemical product that should be handled with care; it’s preferable to use the correct equipment and advice, rather than an ad hoc solution.
In the case of an AdBlue or fuel error, get in touch with Wrong Fuel Recovers and inform them of what’s happened. Time is of the essence in this instance and can be important in ensuring the right advice is received for your vehicle and that the situation is dealt with safely.
Visit Wrong Fuel Recovers for practical advice on fuel recovery and vehicle care.
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