%%date%% %%sep%% %%sitename%%
You’ve just bought a new diesel truck? You’re going to have to learn about diesel exhaust fluid and why you need it if you want it to be in tip-top shape.
Any diesel-fueled vehicle built on or after 2010 is furnished with Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) and requires the use of diesel exhaust fluid.
What Is Diesel Exhaust Fluid?
Diesel Exhaust Fluid, or DEF, is comprised of de-ionized water and urea, a non-hazardous solution. Your favorite diesel vehicle releases NOx emissions into the air, and DEF works to reduce emissions and prevent harm. It does this by turning the emissions into innocuous water, oxygen, and nitrogen. DEF consists of 32.5% urea and 67.5% deionized water
DEF is not stored in the diesel tanks, but has its own tank, meaning it never comes in contact with the actual diesel.
Diesel engines have been using this technology since 2010. Newer diesel vehicles require less fluid than big diesel engine trucks.
How Much DEF Do I Need?
Diesel vehicles consume DEF anywhere from 2 to 3 percent of the fuel that’s used. In other words, if you have a 30 gallon tank you’ll need between ½ to ¾ gallons of DEF. If you have a 50 gallon tank you would need 1 to 1.5 gallons of DEF.
DEF is often paired with a process called exhaust gas recirculation (EGR). EGR and DEF are negatively correlated – if an engine uses more EGR, the less DEF it needs.
The amount of DEF a vehicle needs is also slightly dependent on the climate. If you live in a humid or cold area, your vehicle consumes less DEF, whereas a dry and hot environment uses more.
The good thing is that DEF is becoming a standard, and is readily available at most gas stations or truck stops, often directly in the pump. If you’re the owner of multiple diesel vehicles, you can purchase enough for your entire fleet.
If you happen to run out of DEF before refilling, the vehicle speed will slow down. It won’t return to normal until you’ve topped out your fluid. If your vehicle is post-2010, it has lights to alert you when your fluid is getting low, and they start flashing when you’re almost out.
The Cost of DEF
DEF ranges from 3 to 5 dollars a gallon at the pump and 6 to 10 dollars a gallon by the jug. Usually, the jug is 2.5 gallons. You can buy DEF at most auto parts stores or you can buy it at the pump at some truck stops. Pilot / Flying J claims to have DEF at 95% of their locations.
To find the nearest “buy at the pump location” you can search “DEF Fluid Near Me” or use the DEF Pumps app for Android. Note: it is not always at the fuel pumps. You may find it at the fuel island where the big trucks fill their tanks.
Refilling your diesel exhaust fluid is comparable to getting an oil change in a car. Let it go for too long, and it may damage your engine irreparably. Monitor your DEF closely, make sure you’re always topped off and feel good about taking care of the environment while you’re doing it.
How Long Will DEF Last?
DEF’s lifespan is determined by the facility in which it’s stored. If the facility has an optimal temperature of 12 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit, the life is under two years.
If stored under 65 degrees, outside of direct sunlight, and in a dry environment, your DEF will last two years on the shelf.
What Happens if I Use Bad DEF?
DEF typically expires in 2 years so it’s good practice to write the date of purchase on the container. DEF is a clear liquid so visually you should be able to see if it’s still good or not. Bad DEF is discolored or cloudy. High heat and direct sunlight are some of the main causes of degradation.
If DEF freezes it is still ok to use as long as the container is not damaged. You might think it’s ruined because it will look slushy but it’s still good as long as it’s not cloudy.
Using bad diesel exhaust fluid can result in these negative consequences:
Malfunctioning SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) system
Corrosion leading to permanent engine damage
Component damage
Equipment failure
In conclusion, DEF is an essential fluid for modern diesel trucks. It helps reduce harmful emissions. By knowing how much DEF your vehicle needs, where you can buy it, and how to store it properly, you can ensure your diesel truck runs smoothly and cleanly for many miles to come. Remember, keeping your DEF tank topped off is just as important as getting regular oil changes!
Also, if your truck needs performance upgrades or replacement parts keep us in mind. ProSource Diesel is the best source for diesel truck parts and accessories.
%%excerpt%%
The post A Guide to Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) appeared first on Prosource Diesel.
%%category%%
%%tag%%
