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What happens if I run out of DEF fluid?

What happens if I run out of DEF fluid?

Exhaust is injected with DEF before entering the SCR catalyst, where it is then transformed into clean air that exits the tailpipe. If you let the DEF tank run dry, you could experience days, weeks or even months of downtime — along with thousands of dollars in potential repairs.

What is the best DEF fluid?

The best diesel exhaust fluid meets the Environmental Protection Agency’s standards and is free from impurities. Valvoline’s Premium Blue Diesel Exhaust Fluid is a top choice because it is compatible with all selective catalytic reduction systems and meets the EPA’s near-zero nitrogen oxide emissions levels standard.

How many miles does DEF fluid last?

Most DEF tanks require one gallon of DEF for every 50 gallons of diesel fuel, and one gallon will generally last between 300 to 500 miles.

How often should def fluid be added?

If the DEF tank contains less than 5% of its capacity, the equipment engine power will de-rate. Enough power will be available, however, to travel a short distance, so that you can add more fluid to the tank. The DEF tank needs to be filled once for every 3 to 4 times that you refuel with diesel fuel.

Can I put distilled water in my DEF tank?

Use one gallon distilled water, 1/4 cup baking soda, 1/2 gallon clorox, 1/2 cup granulated ammonia, mix for 30 seconds then add to DEF tank.

Does quality of DEF fluid matter?

The main component that sets brands of DEF apart from each other is the level of purity in the product. DEF fluids all must meet an international standard and standards from the EPA that measure the purity of this fluid. Only purchase a DEF that meets the ISO 22241 standard.

Is Platinum Blue def better?

As far as what the fluid is used for, which is the actual DEF, there is no difference. The difference is in the proprietary ingredients that was put into Platinum that they say keeps the DEF from crystalizing in the exhaust over time.

Can you run a diesel without DEF?

If you ignore the DEF warning the truck will cease to work. Some diesel engine manufacturers allow the engine to go into reduced power mode so the truck can “limp home” or limit the number of times you can turn the engine over. At some point though the diesel engine will not start.

Can you put water in your DEF tank?

The DEF will be diluted by the added water, but depending on the ratio of water to DEF, the solution may still contain enough urea to deal with the NOX via an increase in the injection rate.

How do I know if I need to add DEF fluid?

DEF is consumed at a rate of about 2-3% relative to the amount of fuel you are using. This means between 1.2 and 2.0 gallons of DEF will be required for a vehicle with a 65-gallon gas tank. If you have a five-gallon DEF tank, DEF should be replaced every third or fourth time you fill up.

Is there an alternative to DEF fluid?

Windshield washer fluid that contains ammonia will do in a pinch. It contains less AA than needed but will get you to a town where you can get DEF.

Can you make def fluid?

DEF is a mixture of (typically) 2/3 deionized water and 1/3 urea. It’s carefully regulated by the American Petroleum Institute. Technically, urea is derived from one of the byproducts of urine. But it’s synthetically made, so no cats are ever harmed in the production of the fluid.

Is there a difference between DEF fluid brands?

DEF features The main component that sets brands of DEF apart from each other is the level of purity in the product. DEF fluids all must meet an international standard and standards from the EPA that measure the purity of this fluid. Only purchase a DEF that meets the ISO 22241 standard.

What DEF does Cummins recommend?

It has high purity requirements – defined by the International Organization for Standardization specification ISO 22241-1, and the American Petroleum Institute. The 32.5% DEF solution is preferred for use with most SCR systems worldwide due to optimum cold weather performance.