What Happens if You Put a Small Amount of AdBlue in Diesel Tank
- Misfuelled Car Fixer Suffolk
- Jan 14
- 4 min read
What happens if you put a small amount of AdBlue in diesel tank? Accidentally putting AdBlue into a diesel tank is a mistake that can cause serious problems for your vehicle. AdBlue is a urea-based solution designed to reduce emissions in diesel engines, but it is not a fuel and should never be mixed with diesel. If you find yourself in this situation, knowing what to do next can save you from costly repairs and long downtime. This post explains the risks, symptoms, and steps to take if you put a small amount of AdBlue in your diesel tank.
What Is AdBlue and Why It Should Not Go in the Diesel Tank
AdBlue is a liquid solution made of 32.5% high-purity urea and 67.5% deionized water. It is injected into the exhaust system of diesel vehicles equipped with Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology. The purpose of AdBlue is to convert harmful nitrogen oxides (NOx) into harmless nitrogen and water vapor, helping vehicles meet emission standards.
AdBlue is stored in a separate tank and is never mixed with diesel fuel. Diesel engines rely on the fuel’s combustion properties, and introducing AdBlue into the fuel system can cause severe damage. The chemical composition of AdBlue is corrosive to fuel system components and can lead to blockages, corrosion, and engine failure.
What Happens If You Put a Small Amount of AdBlue in the Diesel Tank
Putting a small amount of AdBlue in the diesel tank can cause different levels of damage depending on the quantity and how quickly you act. Here’s what typically happens:
Fuel contamination: AdBlue does not mix with diesel fuel. Instead, it settles and causes separation, leading to poor fuel quality.
Corrosion of fuel system parts: AdBlue’s urea content is corrosive to metal parts inside the fuel tank, fuel lines, and injectors.
Fuel filter clogging: The mixture can cause deposits that clog fuel filters, reducing fuel flow.
Engine performance issues: You may notice rough idling, loss of power, or difficulty starting the engine.
Potential engine damage: If the contaminated fuel reaches the injectors or combustion chamber, it can cause serious damage.
Even a small amount can cause problems, but the severity depends on how much AdBlue was added and whether the engine was started afterward.
Signs Your Diesel Vehicle Has Been Contaminated with AdBlue
If you suspect you have put AdBlue in your diesel tank, watch for these warning signs:
Engine warning lights: The check engine or diesel particulate filter (DPF) warning lights may illuminate.
Difficulty starting: The engine may crank but fail to start or start with hesitation.
Unusual noises: You might hear knocking or irregular engine sounds.
Reduced power and acceleration: The vehicle may feel sluggish or struggle to accelerate.
Fuel smell or leaks: A strange smell near the fuel filler or leaks around the fuel system.
Fuel filter issues: Frequent clogging or the need to replace fuel filters more often.
If you notice any of these symptoms after refueling, stop driving immediately to prevent further damage.
Immediate Steps to Take If You Put AdBlue in the Diesel Tank
If you realize you have added AdBlue to your diesel tank, follow these steps:
Do not start the engine
Starting the engine will circulate the contaminated fuel through the system, increasing damage.
Call a professional misfuelled car fixer
Contact our specialist who can safely drain and clean the fuel system. In Suffolk, you can call 0330 122 6640 for expert assistance 24/7.
Have the fuel tank drained and cleaned
Our professionals will drain the contaminated fuel, flush the fuel lines, and replace fuel filters if necessary.
Inspect and repair damaged parts
The mechanic will check injectors, fuel pumps, and other components for corrosion or damage.
Refill with clean diesel
After cleaning, refill the tank with fresh diesel and test the vehicle.
How Professionals Fix Misfuelled Diesel Vehicles
Fixing a diesel vehicle contaminated with AdBlue requires specialized knowledge and equipment. Here’s what a misfuelled car fixer typically does:
Fuel tank draining
The entire fuel tank is emptied to remove all traces of AdBlue.
Fuel system flushing
Fuel lines, filters, and pumps are flushed with clean diesel or a cleaning agent to remove deposits.
Component inspection
Injectors, fuel pumps, and sensors are inspected for corrosion or damage.
System testing
The vehicle is tested for proper fuel flow and engine performance before returning to the owner.
This process can take several hours and requires professional tools. Attempting to fix the problem yourself may cause more harm.
Preventing AdBlue Misfuelling Mistakes
Preventing this costly mistake is easier than fixing it. Here are some tips:
Know your vehicle’s fuel requirements
Always check the fuel type before refilling.
Use separate filler caps
Many vehicles have clearly marked caps for diesel and AdBlue tanks. Make sure to use the correct one.
Ask for help if unsure
If you are unfamiliar with your vehicle’s fuel system, ask the fuel station attendant for assistance.
Label your AdBlue container
If you carry AdBlue for refilling, keep it clearly labeled and stored separately.
Stay calm and double-check
Before inserting the fuel nozzle, double-check the label on the pump and your vehicle’s filler neck.
What to Expect After Repair and How to Avoid Future Issues
After professional repair, your vehicle should run normally if no permanent damage occurred. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Monitor engine performance
Watch for any unusual noises or warning lights in the days following the repair.
Keep service records
Document the repair for warranty or insurance purposes.
Regular maintenance
Follow your vehicle’s maintenance schedule to keep the fuel system in good condition.
Emergency contacts
Save the number of a reliable misfuelled car fixer, such as 0330 122 6640 in Suffolk, for quick help if needed.
Taking these steps reduces the risk of long-term damage and keeps your diesel vehicle running smoothly.
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