AdBlue – KIA Models with Diesel engines
What is AdBlue
AdBlue is one of the latest techniques used to clean up diesel emissions is known as selective catalytic reduction (SCR). A solution of urea in water is used to treat exhaust gases and remove harmful pollutants, including nitrogen oxides (NOx), of which nitrogen dioxide (NO2) is the most harmful. The fluid used in most vehicles is known as AdBlue, a registered trademark owned by the German Association of the Automobile Industry (VDA), which ensures standards are maintained. The fluid is stored in a tank in the car, but unlike petrol or diesel it is not injected into the engine; instead it is fed into part of the vehicle’s exhaust. A chemical reaction converts the harmful NOx exhaust gases into harmless nitrogen and water.
Are there different grades of AdBlue?
AdBlue is a proprietary name, like Hoover and iPhone: i.e. there are not different types or brands of AdBlue, though there may at any time be different brands selling other urea-based solutions that perform the same function.
Tank location
The AdBlue tank is located behind the fuel cover, next to the diesel fuel filler.
How to fill tank
Ensure the car is parked on a level surface and locate the AdBlue tank. Unscrew the blue lid and replenish the tank using AdBlue bottles or pouches bought from a registered AdBlue dealer.
How will drivers know if AdBlue needs topping up?
The car’s driver information display screen should flash up warnings, much as it would if fuel or windscreen washer fluid were low. Failing to act on these warnings will ultimately result in the car refusing to start until the AdBlue tank is filled.
What happens if you run out of AdBlue?
If you run out of AdBlue while you’re driving, then the engine’s power and performance will be reduced to limit its emissions. Once you’ve stopped, you won’t be able to restart the engine if the AdBlue tank’s empty.
Where can I buy AdBlue?
Garages should refill AdBlue as part of a diesel car’s routine servicing. However, it’s possible to refill a tank of AdBlue yourself.
Can you top up AdBlue anytime?
Based on conservative estimates, AdBlue may require topping up every 8,000 to 12,500 km although this will fluctuate based on manufacturer, model, and driving style.
AdBlue and your car’s warranty
If your car has a warranty, it is important to use branded AdBlue solution. For any solution to use this trademark, it must comply with certain standards that vehicle manufacturers’ SCR systems rely on. Failing to do so could invalidate the warranty.