As the owner of a diesel vehicle that was built after 2010, diesel exhaust fluid and diesel exhaust fluid caps are no stranger to you. Unfortunately, there are still some common concerns and misconceptions about this fluid. Here are some of the most important things you should know.
Be Aware of These Advantages
The only real disadvantages of diesel exhaust fluid are the upfront cost of the vehicle, the additional room required to store the fluid in the car and the fact that it can add a little bit more weight to it. However, there are much more advantages than disadvantages: better fuel economy, less wear on the engine, reduced maintenance and more optimized combustion. Furthermore, vehicles equipped with diesel exhaust fluid feature increased power, fewer generations and only nitrogen and water vapor are released into the air.
Don’t Let the Tank Run Dry
Running the fluid tank dry is almost just as bad as adding contaminated or incorrect fluid. The good thing is that all diesel vehicles after 2010 are equipped with a warning system or gauge that lets you monitor the fluid level. What happens when the tank runs dry depends on your vehicle. Some limit the number of times the engine can be turned on while others operate under reduced engine power. Don’t get stranded somewhere in the middle of nowhere. Be sure to treat your diesel exhaust fluid tank just like you treat your fuel tank. To know more, click here.
Know These Things Too
Diesel exhaust fluid is non-toxic, non-hazardous, non-flammable and non-explosive. It’s safer than many other fluids in a vehicle. What’s important to be aware of is that it is extremely sensitive to contamination though and it should be handled with utmost care to retain purity. Furthermore, diesel exhaust fluid should be stored in temperatures between 12 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. While it does freeze at 12 degrees, your vehicle’s heating system will melt it, making it perfectly safe for operation in freezing temperatures.
These are some of the things you should know about diesel exhaust fluid. Additionally, all diesel vehicles should feature high-quality diesel exhaust fluid caps that prevent fluid from leaking and spilling in order to protect the environment.
