Leasing a Diesel Vehicle? AdBlue© and DPF

AdBlue© Solution for Diesel Engines – What you need to know.

AdBlue© is a registered trademark for a solution that reduces emissions from the exhausts of UK diesel vehicles to comply with Euro 6 emissions standards

What is AdBlue© and how does it work? :

AdBlue© is a non-toxic liquid consisting of water and urea which is combined with the exhaust gases using SCR technology. Basically what AdBlue© does is it converts more than 90% of harmful nitrogen oxide (NOx) into Nitrogen and steam leading to less pollution and lower exhaust emissions which in turn can mean lower tax.

Originally just seen in Euro 6 compliant commercial vehicles, AdBlue© injection systems are now becoming a feature of all new modern diesel vehicles to hit emissions targets.

Does my vehicle need AdBlue©:

If you drive a diesel vehicle the answer to this question depends usually on how new your vehicle is. Ensure you don't find out your vehicle uses ad blue when a warning light comes on the dashboard.

If you are unsure is your vehicle needs AdBlue© consult the handbook and check to see you your vehicle has an AdBlue© filler cap and where to locate it. Often the ad blue cap is next to the fuel cap but in some models, it can be located in different areas of the vehicle.

When does AdBlue© need to be topped up?:

A full top up of AdBlue© should last between 3000 and 20,000 miles depending on the manufacturer and sometimes doesn’t need topping up until your next service.

All vehicles also have a warning system on the dash which will let you know when the AdBlue© tank requires a refill. Do not ignore the warning light as some vehicles will not start if the warning light is ignored and the vehicle runs out of AdBlue©.

Important Information

• It’s the driver’s responsibility to ensure AdBlue© tank is kept topped up.
• It’s the driver’s responsibility to pay all costs associated with keeping the AdBlue© tank topped up.
• Don’t ignore the ad blue warning light
• If the wrong liquid is poured into the tank do not start the engine and call you funder immediately.
• Handle AdBlue© with care. AdBlue© damages surfaces such as paintwork, clothing and carpets. Use gloves and be careful not to get in your eyes.
• Don’t be tempted to keep AdBlue© in your boot. If spilled Ad blue can damage carpets or paintwork.

Diesel Particulate Filter For Diesel Engines

Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Fact Sheet

Diesel particulate filter reduces the amount of harmful particles released from Vehicles.

What is a Diesel Particulate Filter? :

Most New Diesel vehicles are fitted with a Diesel Particulate Filter or DPF which removes soot and carbon from the exhaust gases, lowering your vehicle's emissions and meeting European emissions legislation.

How does a DPF work? :

DPF catch bits of soot in the exhaust. As with any filter, they have to be emptied regularly to maintain performance. This process is called ‘regeneration’ – this is where the DPF will clean itself by heating up and burning off the accumulated soot particles.

To regenerate, the DPF needs a high exhaust temperature which is usually achieved whilst driving normally on longer journeys. In some circumstances such as using the vehicle for lots of short journeys the DPF never gets to a temperature where it can regenerate.

In this case, the driver will be alerted with a warning light on the instrument panel.

What to do if a DPF warning light comes on?

If a DPF warning light is displayed, it is to let you know as the driver that the DPF needs assistance in regeneration.

The problem can usually be resolved by driving the vehicle for between 10-20 minutes at around 50mph or keeping the engine around 2500rpm, or driving down the motorway for a few junctions. The warning light will go off once the DPF has regenerated.

You manual will contain specific guidance for you to follow if traffic or speed limits restrict you from assisting regeneration.

If two or more DPF lights come on you will need to contact an authorised repairer immediately for manual regeneration. Do not ignore as it could lead to a reduction in power and mechanical failure that are not covered by warranty.

Important Information

• It’s the driver’s responsibility to ensure the DPF is regenerated
• DPF’s automatically regenerate but at times need assistance (you will see a warning light)
• To assist in regeneration you will need to drive the vehicle over a longer than usual distance at around 2500rmp until the warning light goes off
• When you see a warning light it’s important to take action.
• If you see two warning lights call an authorised repairer immediately.

Need more information? - Call us on: 0344 745 1818 or email your questions to: [email protected]