AdBlue for Diesel Engines
Some Euro6 Diesel Engines, including Land Rover’s Ingenium series as fitted to the Discovery Sport and Range Rover Evoque from MY 2016 onward, require the use of AdBlue to fully meet the pollution and emissions targets.
AdBlue is a colourless (until some manufacturers add blue dye), odourless and non-flammable fluid that is stored in a separate tank under in the vehicle and topped up via a smaller filler, usually mounted next to the main diesel filler or under the bonnet (check your handbook for exact location). The fluid is injected into the exhaust system while the engine is running to neutralise some harmful gases.
AdBlue is basically a mix of water and urea that can help reduce Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) by up to 90% using a Selective Catalytic Reduction system. The fluid is injected in microscopic amounts into the exhaust gas. The combination of these elements acts to break up the gasses into harmless nitrogen and oxygen.
Adblue is usually store in sufficient quantities to last between regular service intervals so will require no intervention on your part. We will just top it up when your Range Rover Evoque or Discovery Sport is in for its next service. However we do offer intermittent top-ups if required and these can be done while you wait at either of our Maidenhead or Peterborough branches.
If your AdBlue needs replenishing prior to its next service you will see a warning light appear on the dashboard that the level of AdBlue is getting low. You can top it up yourself using one-litre bottles from any car accessory outlet, however your vehicle may require you to fully top up the tank to dismiss the dashboard warning light.
For Land Rover and Range Rover vehicles the warning will appear on the message centre. The first will advise that a top-up is advised. This will progress to an AMBER warning that states the AdBlue needs to be replenished. Following that a countdown will commence indicating how many miles you have left. If you are unable to refill the AdBlue before it runs out your car will then fail to start.
WHAT IS EURO 6?
Euro 6 is a piece of European Legislation aimed at making cars more environmentally friendly by limiting their exhaust emissions. The legislation sets restrictions on how much nitrogen oxide (NOx) and hydrocarbon gases may be emitted per kilometre by a road vehicle.
Petrol and diesel cars are subject to different restrictions under the new Euro 6 legislation. For diesel cars, the permitted level of NOx emissions has been brought down to 80 mg/km (from 180 mg/km), while the permitted level of hydrocarbons emissions has been brought down to 170 mg/km (from 230 mg/km). The permitted level of NOx emissions for petrol cars remains at 60 mg/km, while the permitted level of hydrocarbons emissions remains at 100 mg/km.
From 1st January 2015, all newly introduced vehicles must meet Euro 6 standards. This includes any new models on the market, for example: Discovery Sport. Vehicles already on sale must comply with Euro 6 by 1st September 2015, but;
Individual vehicles already on sale that were built by, and dispatched from, the manufacturer before 1st June 2015 can continue to be sold until 1st September 2016. However, the manufacturer must apply for derogation in these instances.
AdBlue FAQ
How often should you refill your AdBlue?
The consumption of AdBlue can vary greatly. An average consumption rate can be around 1 litre per 500 miles (800km), but the consumption can more than double, depending on your driving style, traffic, road and weather conditions.
What happens if you run out of AdBlue?
If you run out of AdBlue your vehicle will not re-start after you switch off the engine – this is a requirement of EU6 emissions legislation and applies to all vehicles. The tank will need to be refilled with a minimum of around 3-5 litres of AdBlue before the vehicle will start.
Can you top up AdBlue yourself?
You can purchase AdBlue from most motor factors or accessory retailers to refill the tank yourself. Do not pour any other liquids into the AdBlue tank or AdBlue that does not meet the standard ISO22241-1 or DIN 70070 as this will compromise the correct operation of your vehicle. If you pour AdBlue into your fuel tank by mistake, DO NOT start the engine and call your Roadside Assistance company immediately. Commercial vehicle AdBlue pumps at fuel stations must never be used because the flow rate is too high and this will damage the vehicle’s AdBlue tank. Refer to your Owner’s Handbook for instructions on how to refill your AdBlue tank.
Is AdBlue totally safe?
Although AdBlue is non-hazardous, if it comes in to contact with any part of your skin refer to the advice on the packaging and seek medical advice. If AdBlue comes into contact with your vehicle’s paintwork, simply wipe it off, and rinse the area with soapy water. However, AdBlue can stain upholstery and clothing – if spilt, it should be removed immediately using cold water and a damp cloth.
Can I store AdBlue in my car boot?
Always store AdBlue in its original container and observe the manufacturer’s storage and handling recommendations shown on the bottle. It should never be stored in the vehicle. Most vehicles will give you plenty of warning that it needs topping up so there should be no need to carry extra quantities.
Which Land Rovers and Range Rovers use AdBlue?
|
Model |
Approx. Tank Capacity |
Potential |
Initial Warning of AdBlue |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Range Rover |
18 litres |
V6 – 1 litre per 560 miles V8 – 1 litre per 400 miles |
V6 – 8100 – 9000 miles V8 – 5400 – 6000 miles |
|
Range Rover Sport |
18 litres |
V6 – 1 litre per 560 miles V8 – 1 litre per 400 miles |
V6 – 8100 – 9000 miles V8 – 5400 – 6000 miles |
|
Range Rover Evoque |
14.5 litres |
1 litre per 530 miles |
5800 – 6500 miles |
|
Discovery |
17.8 litres |
1 litre per 500 miles |
7000 – 7770 miles |
|
Discovery Sport |
13.7 litres |
1 litre per 530 miles |
5400 – 6050 miles |
