What Happens If You Put 1 Litre of AdBlue in Your Diesel Tank

Accidentally putting AdBlue into a diesel fuel tank is a mistake that can cause serious problems for your vehicle. AdBlue is a urea-based solution designed to reduce harmful emissions in diesel engines, but it is meant to be injected into a separate system, not mixed with diesel fuel. If you find yourself wondering what happens if you put 1 litre of AdBlue in your diesel tank, this post will explain the consequences, potential damage, and what steps to take if this happens.

Diesel fuel tank filler with nozzle

What Is AdBlue and How Does It Work? | 1 Litre AdBlue In Diesel Tank

AdBlue is a clear, non-toxic liquid made from a mixture of urea and deionized water. It is used in Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems in modern diesel vehicles to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. The AdBlue solution is injected into the exhaust stream, where it reacts with NOx gases and converts them into harmless nitrogen and water vapor.

AdBlue is stored in a separate tank from diesel fuel and is never meant to be mixed with the fuel itself. The two liquids have very different chemical properties and purposes.

Why Putting AdBlue in a Diesel Tank Is a Problem

Diesel engines rely on the fuel to combust efficiently inside the engine cylinders. Diesel fuel is a hydrocarbon-based liquid designed to ignite under compression and power the engine. AdBlue, on the other hand, is a water-based solution that does not combust and can cause serious issues if introduced into the fuel system.

Here are the main problems caused by putting AdBlue in a diesel tank:

• Fuel contamination: AdBlue dilutes the diesel fuel, reducing its combustion quality.

• Corrosion: The urea and water in AdBlue can corrode metal parts inside the fuel system.

• Fuel filter blockage: AdBlue can crystallize and clog fuel filters.

• Injector damage: Contaminated fuel can damage fuel injectors and pumps.

• Engine performance issues: The engine may misfire, stall, or fail to start.

  
  

Even a small amount like 1 litre of AdBlue mixed with diesel can cause these problems, depending on the size of the fuel tank and the vehicle.

What Happens Immediately After Adding 1 Litre of AdBlue to Diesel

If you accidentally add 1 litre of AdBlue to your diesel tank, the effects depend on the total volume of diesel in the tank. For example, if your tank holds 50 litres, 1 litre of AdBlue represents 2% contamination. This might not cause immediate engine failure but can lead to noticeable symptoms such as:

• Rough idling or engine hesitation

• Difficulty starting the engine

• Warning lights on the dashboard related to fuel or emissions

• Unusual exhaust smoke or smell

  
  

If you continue driving without addressing the issue, the damage can worsen quickly.

How AdBlue Affects Different Parts of the Fuel System

Fuel Tank and Fuel Lines

AdBlue is corrosive to some metals and rubber components. When mixed with diesel, it can cause rust and deterioration inside the fuel tank and fuel lines. This corrosion can lead to leaks or blockages over time.

Fuel Filters

Fuel filters trap impurities to protect the engine. AdBlue can cause crystals to form, blocking the filters and restricting fuel flow. This blockage reduces engine performance and can cause the engine to stall.

Fuel Injectors and Pump

The fuel pump and injectors rely on clean diesel fuel to operate smoothly. AdBlue contamination can cause these components to wear out prematurely or fail. Repairing or replacing injectors and pumps can be very expensive.

What to Do If You Put AdBlue in Your Diesel Tank

If you realize you have added AdBlue to your diesel tank, take these steps immediately:

1. Do not start the engine if you have not already done so. Starting the engine will circulate the contaminated fuel and cause more damage.

2. Call our professional assistance to drain the fuel tank completely.

3. Flush the fuel system to remove any remaining AdBlue residue.

4. Replace fuel filters to prevent blockages.

5. Inspect fuel injectors and pumps for damage and replace if necessary.

   
   

Acting quickly can save you from costly repairs and extensive damage.

Can 1 Litre of AdBlue Cause Permanent Damage?

The risk of permanent damage depends on how soon you catch the mistake and the size of your fuel tank. For smaller tanks, 1 litre of AdBlue can cause significant contamination. If the engine runs on this mixture, it can damage fuel system components beyond repair.

For larger tanks, the contamination is less concentrated but still harmful. Prompt action to drain and clean the system usually prevents permanent damage.

Preventing AdBlue and Diesel Mix-Ups

To avoid this costly mistake, follow these tips:

• Always check the fuel cap before refueling.

• Note that AdBlue tanks usually have a blue cap, while diesel tanks have black or green caps.

• Use separate nozzles and pumps for AdBlue and diesel.

• Inform fuel attendants if you are unsure about the correct filler.

• Keep AdBlue containers clearly labeled and stored separately from diesel.

  
  

Summary of Key Points

• AdBlue is a urea solution used in a separate tank for emissions control, not for fuel.

• Adding 1 litre of AdBlue to diesel fuel contaminates the fuel and can cause engine problems.

• Symptoms include rough running, warning lights, and potential engine damage.

• Immediate action involves not starting the engine and having the fuel system drained and cleaned.

• Prevent mix-ups by checking caps and using correct nozzles.

  
  

Understanding the risks and acting quickly can save your vehicle from serious damage. If you suspect AdBlue contamination, contact a professional without delay to protect your diesel engine.