What Happens if You Put AdBlue in Diesel Tank

Putting the wrong fluid in your vehicle’s fuel tank can cause serious problems. One common mistake some drivers make is accidentally putting AdBlue into a diesel fuel tank. This error can lead to costly damage and inconvenient repairs if not handled quickly and correctly. If you find yourself in this situation, knowing what to do next can save your vehicle and your wallet.

Accidental AdBlue in diesel fuel tank

What Is AdBlue and How Is It Different from Diesel?

AdBlue is a liquid solution made of urea and deionized water. It is used in diesel vehicles equipped with Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems to reduce harmful nitrogen oxide emissions. AdBlue is stored in a separate tank and injected into the exhaust stream, not the fuel tank.

Diesel fuel, on the other hand, is a petroleum-based fuel used to power diesel engines. It is highly combustible and designed to burn inside the engine cylinders.

The two fluids serve completely different purposes and have very different chemical properties. AdBlue is not a fuel and cannot power your engine. Putting AdBlue in the diesel tank can cause serious engine damage.

What Happens If You Put AdBlue in Your Diesel Tank?

What happens if you put adblue in diesel tank? When AdBlue enters the diesel fuel tank, it contaminates the fuel system. Because AdBlue is mostly water and urea, it does not combust like diesel. Instead, it can cause:

• Fuel system corrosion: AdBlue’s water content can corrode metal parts inside the fuel tank, fuel lines, and injectors.

• Fuel filter blockage: Urea crystals can form and clog fuel filters.

• Engine misfire or failure: The engine may stall or fail to start because it is not receiving proper fuel.

• Damage to fuel injectors and pumps: These components rely on clean diesel fuel and can be damaged by AdBlue contamination.

  
  

The severity of damage depends on how much AdBlue was added and whether the engine was started after the mistake.

Immediate Steps to Take If You Put AdBlue in Your Diesel Tank

If you realize you have put AdBlue in your diesel tank, act quickly to minimize damage:

1. Do not start the engine

   Starting the engine will circulate the contaminated fuel through the system, increasing damage.

   
   

2. Turn off the ignition and remove the key

   Prevent any accidental starting.

   
   

3. Call a professional fuel rescue service immediately

   Wrong Fuel Emergency (phone: 07771 029122) specialize in handling fuel contamination. We can safely drain and clean your fuel system nationwide.

   
   

4. Inform the rescue team about the amount of AdBlue added

   This helps us prepare the right equipment and approach.

   
   

5. Avoid trying to fix the problem yourself

   Draining and cleaning the fuel system requires special tools and expertise.

   
   

How Professionals Handle AdBlue Contamination

When Wrong Fuel Emergency or a similar service arrives, they will:

• Drain the contaminated fuel tank completely

This removes all traces of AdBlue and diesel mixture.

• Flush the fuel lines and filters

To clear any residual urea crystals or water.

• Inspect fuel injectors and pumps

To check for corrosion or damage.

• Refill the tank with clean diesel fuel

After cleaning, the vehicle can be safely restarted.

This process prevents long-term damage and restores your vehicle’s performance.

How to Avoid Putting AdBlue in the Diesel Tank

Preventing this mistake is easier than fixing it. Here are some tips:

• Know your vehicle’s tanks

Diesel and AdBlue tanks are separate and usually clearly marked. Familiarize yourself with their locations.

• Use different nozzles or labels

At home or work, label the AdBlue filler cap clearly.

• Pay attention at the pump

When refueling, double-check you are using the diesel pump, not the AdBlue dispenser.

• Educate other drivers

If multiple people use the vehicle, make sure they understand the difference.

• Keep emergency contact numbers handy

Save Wrong Fuel Emergency (07771 029122) in your phone for quick access.

What to Expect After Professional Rescue

Once your vehicle has been serviced by a fuel rescue team:

• The engine should run smoothly without misfires or stalling.

• Fuel consumption should return to normal.

• You may need to monitor the vehicle for a few days for any unusual noises or performance issues.

• If problems persist, further mechanical inspection may be necessary.

  
  

Cost Implications of Putting AdBlue in Diesel

The cost of repairing AdBlue contamination varies:

• Minor contamination with no engine start: Draining and cleaning may cost a few hundred pounds.

• Starting the engine with contaminated fuel: Damage to injectors or fuel pumps can increase repair costs to over a thousand pounds.

• Severe corrosion or engine damage: In worst cases, engine overhaul or replacement may be needed.

  
  

Calling a professional immediately reduces the risk of expensive repairs.

Summary

Accidentally putting AdBlue in your diesel fuel tank is a serious mistake that can cause engine damage and costly repairs. The key is to act fast: do not start the engine, turn off ignition, and call a professional fuel rescue service like Wrong Fuel Emergency at 07771 029122. They will drain and clean your fuel system safely.