Adblue is a highly purified colourless liquid used to reduce the nitrous oxide emissions of diesel engines. It is used in cars, trucks, lorries, busses, boats, tractors, excavators, and many other vehicles. Outside of Europe, Adblue is referred to as ARLA 32, AUS 32 or DEF, and its use is widely embraced by the Euro 6 emission legislation.

What does Adblue do?

The main components of Adblue are ammonia, demineralized water, and urea – these compounds are then used in combination with Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology in diesel engines.

This then triggers a chemical reaction with the ammonia to transform harmful nitrogen oxide into steam and nitrogen. These gasses are naturally occurring in the atmosphere and are harmless to the environment.

Why do I need Adblue?

Emission legislations are becoming more rigorous, and your car will even have sustainability checks as part of its annual MOT test. Your vehicle needs Adblue to convert these harmful nitrogen oxide gasses into more sustainable ones. Both the Euro 5 and 6 regulations call for diesel engines to run more sustainably, not only for passenger cars, but also for transportation and off-road vehicles.

The Euro 6 standards specifically require Adblue for the use of SCR. If you drive a modern dieselpowered vehicle with an SCR catalyst, you will need to use Adblue.

How to use Adblue

Dispensing the Adblue

When dispensing Adblue, it’s important to insert the liquid into its dedicated tank and not with your diesel fuel. You must have a dedicated filling system - homemade devices will compromise the quality of the Adblue as there is a higher risk of corrosion. Before dispensing the liquid, it is important you check your filling equipment for any crystallization or blockages that could have occurred.

Handling Adblue

When handling the Adblue there are few precautions you must take:

  • Protect Adblue against any contaminants such as fuel, dirt, water, dust, metals, and detergents.
  • Do not mix your own Adblue as the quality of the urea is especially important.
  • Do not mix any other liquids into your Adblue
  • If you are transporting your Adblue, ensure the container is fully clean. Do not use containers that have previously been used for petrol or fuel.

Adblue FAQs

  • How much Adblue does my car need?

    The amount of Adblue you need to use will depend on the type of car you have:

    • Mid class diesel will need 1litre for 1000km
    • SUV/MPV class diesel will need 1.5litre for 1000km

    We sell Adblue in sizes ranging from 4ltr to 20ltr, however you can get an Adblue top-up of 10ltr for just £17.50. If it’s your first time using Adblue, we recommend purchasing the starter kit – this comes equipped with an ISO certified spout which will prevent any spills when filling up your vehicle.

  • How will I know when my Adblue needs topping up?

    Most cars are equipped with an Adblue warning light on the dashboard – for example, most Audi models display a countdown of 1,500miles before the required top-up.

  • Is all Adblue the same?

    There are not different types or brands of Adblue - you may find other urea-based products intended to be used for the same purpose, however, these are not Adblue.

Buy Adblue online today from Formula One Autocentres, or if you need more information, do not hesitate to contact our helpful team.


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