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What is AdBlue®?

To help protect our environment, some Volkswagen TDI models are now fitted with AdBlue® emissions control equipment which cleans exhaust gases helping cars to comply with the new EU6 exhaust emissions regulations.

AdBlue® is a non-toxic, non-flammable; biodegradable urea and water-based liquid additive that processes the gases in a car exhaust system to remove harmful nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. The AdBlue® solution is stored in a tank positioned near the car’s conventional fuel tank, accessed through a cap usually found at the rear of the car; its location will depend on the model.

The System works by injecting minute amounts of the solution into the exhaust system when the engine is running. The chemicals in AdBlue® break down the polluting NOx emissions into harmless water vapour and nitrogen gas.

The size of the AdBlue® tank fitted to your car will vary depending on which Volkswagen model you have, therefore the interval between top ups will vary. In addition many factors such as mileage covered, journey types, driving styles and environmental conditions can influence how much AdBlue is consumed. A passenger car will consume approximately 1.5 litres of AdBlue® approximately every 1000km.

AdBlue® belongs to the lowest water pollution hazard category but is a skin irritant and a corrosive liquid that can cause injury if it touches the skin, eyes or respiratory organs.

How do I know if my Volkswagen uses AdBlue®?

A simple visual check will reveal if your car uses AdBlue®.

The AdBlue® filler nozzle is located either next to the main diesel fuel cap (Passat, Tiguan and Amarok V6) under your car’s filler flap and looks like a smaller filler nozzle. Simply opening the filler flap will reveal the AdBlue® nozzle (if fitted).

The AdBlue® cap is unscrewed either using the screw cap or using the car’s wheelbrace, which is found in the toolkit.

Please refer to your car’s handbook for further information.

How AdBlue® helps cut emissions

Reduced raw exhaust emissions are achieved in TDI engines equipped with AdBlue® through a modified fuel injection system, exhaust gas recirculation and optimised turbocharging.

The Volkswagen low emission system uses a DeNOx catalyst, diesel particulate filter and injection of AdBlue®. The AdBlue® solution is stored separately from the fuel tank and is pumped in small quantities into the exhaust pipe ahead of the DeNOx catalyst when the engine is running.

The quantity of AdBlue® injected depends on your driving style, engine loading and atmospheric conditions.

How to replenish your AdBlue® tank

A dash message will inform you if the AdBlue® reservoir is running low (see above). It is important to note that the engine will not run if the AdBlue® supply is exhausted.

AdBlue® consumption often increases when driving under load (exacerbated by high engine load driving or towing a trailer or caravan, for example), with the result that the low AdBlue® message may deploy earlier than usual.

Your Volkswagen Authorised Dealer can refill the AdBlue® tank, and it is important to visit the workshop when the light comes on for the first time to avoid running out, whereupon the engine will not re-start.

Alternatively, you can self-refill the AdBlue® tank with half-gallon (1.89 litres) refill containers of AdBlue®, available from your Volkswagen Authorised Dealer. Use only the AdBlue® approved by Volkswagen in accordance with the Volkswagen standard.

To refill the tank, a fill adaptor must be screwed onto the AdBlue® refill container, which can then be screwed onto the filler neck of the AdBlue® tank. By applying pressure to the bottle, the valve in the fill adaptor opens allowing the AdBlue® to fill the tank.

The Volkswagen 1.89 litre top-up comes complete with the adaptor, part number: G052910A2

What models use AdBlue® in New Zealand?

Currently, it is available on selected Passat, Alltrack, Tiguan and Amarok V6 Diesel engines. To check to see whether your Volkswagen requires AdBlue, contact your local Volkswagen Authorised Dealer.

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AdBlue® needs to be handled with care

If handling AdBlue®, wear suitable protective clothing such as rubber gloves and glasses.

If AdBlue® comes into contact with eyes and skin, rinse for at least 15 minutes with plenty of water and seek medical help. If AdBlue® is swallowed; wash the mouth with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. Do not try to induce vomiting unless recommended by a doctor. Seek medical advice immediately.

AdBlue® damages surfaces such as painted vehicle parts, plastic, items of clothing and carpets.

Spilt AdBlue® should be removed as quickly as possible using a damp cloth and plenty of cold water.

If the mixture is spilt, wash the area immediately as it can be slippery and may cause structural or staining problems with brick or concrete surfaces.

To avoid contamination, do not reuse AdBlue® which has previously been drained off.

Only fill the AdBlue® tank using the Volkswagen approved tools and containers.

Keep all refilling equipment free of dirt and dust. Avoid mixing AdBlue® with diesel fuel, and do not use it if it is contaminated with water or fuel of any kind.

Please refer to your Volkswagen Owner's manual for official guidance on use and operation of all our technology.

AdBlue® is a registered trademark.

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