How to use AdBlue and the most common mistakes made when using it

Want to know how to use AdBlue properly to get the best results possible in your garage? We’re here to help. In this blog, we’ll detail a range of tips on how to use AdBlue and the most common mistakes made when using it that you should avoid. 

There are various reports of AdBlue being added to the wrong system, which leads to expensive failures, damage to vehicle components and not to mention, very unhappy customers. 

Let’s take a look at the most common errors made when using AdBlue and how to use AdBlue to get the desired results. 

Fuel System

Drivers often add AdBlue to the fuel tank. This can cause component wear of the fuel pump and the injectors. Depending on if the vehicle has been driven will depend on the level of damage and the procedure to clean it. 

Tips on how to use AdBlue when you’re adding it to the fuel tank, and the engine isn’t running:

  • Drain the tank and dispose of the fuel correctly
  • If required, rinse the fuel tank with clean fuel to ensure the inside is clean and the AdBlue is removed 
  • Fill the tank with fresh fuel and add 2 x Forté Advanced Formula Diesel Treatment 
  • Replace the fuel filter 
  • Check the fuel filter after 500 miles. If there are signs of crystallisation, the fuel tank must be cleaned again 

Tips on how to use AdBlue when you’re adding it to the fuel tank, and the engine is running:

  • Drain the tank and dispose of the fuel correctly 
  • If required, rinse the fuel tank with clean fuel to ensure the inside the clean and the AdBlue is removed 
  • Fill the tank with fresh fuel and add 2 x Forté Advanced Formula Diesel Treatment 
  • Replace the fuel filter 
  • Disconnect the fuel system from the fuel tank and run the engine with a fresh fuel supply ensuring the return flows to a waste fuel tank
  • Check the fuel filter after 500 miles. If there are signs of crystallisation, the fuel tank must be cleaned again

Cooling System

AdBlue added to the cooling system will form crystals inside and restrict the flow of coolings, reducing the heart transfer. In low-load circumstances, it may not be discovered; however, motorway driving could lead to overheating of the engine. If crystal formation is excessive, the water pump, thermostat, heater matrix or other components may require replacement. 

Tips on how to use AdBlue and clean the cooling system:

  • Add 2 x Forté Cooling System Flush 
  • Run the engine at a faster idle of 1200-1500 rpm for 20 minutes 
  • Carry out a short, gentle drive on the road to ensure the vehicle is at the required operating temperature 
  • Drain the cooling system and flush it with clean water. Once the system is clean, refill it with the required coolant 

Eolys/PAT Fluid Tank

Eolys or PAT fluid is used in some vehicles to add the regeneration of the DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter). It has its own tank and is added to the diesel fuel in small amounts determined by fuel tank fill-ups and fuel usage. 

It’s important to note that Eolys and AdBlue are not the same and should not be used as a direct replacement for the other. Adding the incorrect fluid to the system will cause extensive component failure. 

So, when filling a vehicle with Eolys and AdBlue, ensure the right tank is filled with the correct fluid for that system. If the incorrect fluid has been added, then it must be drained, cleaned, and the correct fluid added. If you’re unable to access the tank to clean it effectively, then it must be replaced. 

Screenwash Bottle

This might seem like common knowledge, but it’s surprising how many people forget to correctly clean their screenwash bottle when adding AdBlue. The bottle must be removed and cleaned if used, not only that, but the pump and washer jets should be flushed through. If you fail to do this, the AdBlue will leave crystallised deposits through the system and can block the pump and jets. 

Hopefully, you’ve found this blog useful in pointing out the most common faults made when using AdBlue to help you avoid making the same mistakes. Understanding how to use AdBlue is essential in order to reap the benefits of our advanced products and improve the performance of your vehicles.