If the car you drive through Motability runs on diesel and was manufactured during or after 2016, you’ve probably already heard of AdBlue. What you may not know though is exactly what it does, and why your car needs it.
Here, we explain what AdBlue is and the benefits it brings to your Motability car and its diesel engine.
The latest diesel cars are the cleanest that have ever been produced, with emission levels that are now very similar to those of petrol cars. This is partly because of AdBlue, a non-toxic diesel exhaust fluid stored in a separate tank within your car.
When you drive your car, the AdBlue system automatically injects AdBlue solution into your vehicle’s exhaust system to clean up the harmful exhaust gases. When the liquid goes in, it reacts with the Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) that your car emits and converts it into water vapor and Nitrogen, both of which are harmless to the atmosphere.
The most obvious benefit of AdBlue is that it stops most of the Nitrogen Oxide – a known respiratory tract irritant – from entering the atmosphere. By driving a diesel car that uses AdBlue, Motability drivers will be reducing their vehicle’s emissions by naturally getting rid of most of the toxic exhaust fumes. In addition, the manufacturer of the car will be more likely to hit the strict emissions targets set by the European Union and other world bodies.
AdBlue works without you having to do anything. You don’t need to change your driving style, it’s all done automatically by your car.
The only thing you do need to keep an eye on is when AdBlue tank starts to run low, because if it runs completely your car will refuse to start. Don’t worry though, as your car will remind you at regular intervals if it needs topping up. How long a full tank will last depends on the vehicle, the engine and your driving style. Looking at the guidelines provided by different manufacturers, the majority of vehicles will be able cover between 4,000 and 10,000 miles before they need the AdBlue topping up.
The cost of AdBlue is included in your Motability contract. Your local Motability dealer will top up the AdBlue for you when you visit them for your vehicle’s annual service. If you are a higher-mileage user and the AdBlue needs topping up between services you can visit the dealer to have it topped up or, if it’s more convenient you could choose to do it yourself (or ask someone else to do it for you).
AdBlue can be bought at your local petrol station or supermarket, usually for between £8 and £12. To top it up, simply unscrew the blue AdBlue filler cap (typically located next to the fuel filler nozzle), attach the refill bottle’s connector and let the AdBlue liquid flow from the bottle into the tank.
Be aware that although AdBlue is non-toxic, it can still cause irritation to the skin, eyes and lungs so it’s recommended that you wear gloves if you decide to top up the AdBlue tank yourself.
Motability’s all-inclusive 3 year / 60,000 mile car lease package includes:
Insurance cover for 3 named drivers is included.
The cost of servicing and maintaining your car is included.
Full breakdown cover provided by RAC Motability Assist is included.
Tyre and windscreen repair and replacement cover is included.
Motability will automatically tax the vehicle every year.
Many helpful adaptations are available at no extra cost.
