What to Do If You Accidentally Put AdBlue in Your Fuel Tank
- Misfuelled Car Fix
- Feb 25
- 3 min read
Accidentally putting AdBlue into your fuel tank can cause serious damage to your vehicle. AdBlue is a urea-based solution designed to reduce emissions in diesel engines, but it is not a fuel and should never enter the fuel system. If you realize you have misfuelled your car with AdBlue, quick action is essential to prevent costly repairs. This guide explains what happens when AdBlue enters the fuel tank, how to fix the problem, and who to call for professional help.
What Is AdBlue and Why It Should Not Go in the Fuel Tank
AdBlue is a clear, non-toxic liquid made from urea and deionized water. It is injected into the exhaust system of diesel vehicles equipped with Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology. This process helps convert harmful nitrogen oxides (NOx) into harmless nitrogen and water vapor, reducing pollution.
AdBlue is stored in a separate tank, distinct from the diesel fuel tank. It is not a fuel and does not combust. If AdBlue enters the fuel tank, it contaminates the diesel fuel, causing engine problems and potentially damaging fuel system components.
Signs You Have Put AdBlue in the Fuel Tank
Recognizing the mistake early can save you from expensive repairs. Common signs include:
Difficulty starting the engine or failure to start
Engine misfires or runs roughly
Warning lights on the dashboard related to the engine or emissions system
Unusual noises from the engine
Sudden loss of power while driving
If you notice any of these symptoms after refuelling, stop driving immediately and investigate.
Immediate Steps to Take After Misfuelling
If you realize you have put AdBlue in your fuel tank, follow these steps:
Do not start the engine. Starting the engine circulates the contaminated fuel, increasing the risk of damage.
Turn off the ignition and remove the key. This prevents accidental engine start.
Call a professional breakdown or misfuel recovery service. For example, you can contact Misfuelled Car Fix at 0800 999 1182 for expert assistance.
Inform the service about the type of misfuel. This helps them prepare the right equipment and procedure.
Avoid attempting to drain or fix the problem yourself. Incorrect handling can worsen the damage.
How Professionals Fix AdBlue Misfuelling
Specialist technicians use specific methods to remove AdBlue from the fuel system safely:
Fuel tank draining and flushing: The contaminated fuel is completely drained. The tank is flushed with clean diesel to remove all traces of AdBlue.
Fuel system cleaning: Fuel lines, filters, and injectors are cleaned or replaced if necessary.
System checks: The engine and emissions systems are inspected for damage.
Refilling with clean diesel: After cleaning, the fuel tank is refilled with fresh diesel.
This process requires special tools and expertise. Attempting to fix the problem without professional help can lead to costly repairs or permanent engine damage.
Potential Damage Caused by AdBlue in the Fuel Tank
AdBlue is corrosive to some fuel system components. If left untreated, it can cause:
Corrosion of fuel injectors and fuel pump
Damage to fuel filters and fuel lines
Engine misfires and poor combustion
Failure of the SCR system and related sensors
Expensive repairs or engine replacement
The longer the contaminated fuel remains in the system, the worse the damage becomes.
Preventing AdBlue Misfuelling
Avoiding this mistake is the best way to protect your vehicle. Here are some tips:
Always check the fuel type before refuelling.
Familiarize yourself with your vehicle’s AdBlue tank location.
Use different fuel stations or pumps for diesel and AdBlue.
Label the AdBlue filler cap clearly.
If unsure, ask the fuel station attendant for help.
What to Do If You Have Already Driven With AdBlue in the Fuel Tank
If you have driven after putting AdBlue in the fuel tank, the risk of damage increases. Still, do not delay seeking help. Contact a professional service immediately to assess and fix the problem. They may need to perform more extensive repairs depending on how far the contaminated fuel has circulated.
When to Call Misfuelled Car Fix
If you have put AdBlue in your fuel tank, calling a specialist like Misfuelled Car Fix at 0800 999 1182 is the safest choice. They offer:
Fast response to misfuelling emergencies
Expert technicians trained in handling AdBlue contamination
Proper equipment to drain and clean your fuel system
Advice on next steps and repair costs
Their experience can save you time, money, and stress.
Summary and Next Steps
Putting AdBlue in your fuel tank is a serious mistake that requires immediate action. Do not start your engine, call a professional service like Misfuelled Car Fix at 0800 999 1182, and avoid trying to fix the problem yourself. Early intervention can prevent costly damage and get your vehicle back on the road safely.
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