Mechanic Glossary

Adblue Tank

A specialized reservoir used to store diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) on clean-diesel vehicles.

The AdBlue tank (DEF tank) stores the urea solution needed for emissions control. Made of heavy plastic, it is separate from the diesel fuel tank. It features a blue filler cap, usually located next to the diesel fuel neck, under the hood, or in the trunk. The tank includes a heater element to melt frozen fluid in winter, a level sensor to track fluid levels, and a temp sensor to protect the system.

Never put diesel fuel into the AdBlue tank, or AdBlue into the diesel tank. Even a small drop of diesel will destroy the rubber seals in the pump and injector, requiring a complete system replacement. If you accidentally mix them, do not start the engine. You must tow the vehicle to a shop and drain the tank completely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most passenger cars and SUVs hold 3 to 5 gallons of DEF, which lasts between 5,000 and 10,000 miles. Heavy-duty pickup trucks hold 5 to 7 gallons.
Do not turn the key. DEF is corrosive and will ruin the entire diesel high-pressure fuel injection system, costing thousands of dollars in damage. The fuel tank must be dropped and cleaned immediately.
Yes. DEF has a shelf life of about one year. If the vehicle sits in hot sun, the water will evaporate and the urea will decompose, triggering emissions warning codes.

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