In the “eternal” battle against emissions, the AdBlue has become in recent years one of the best friends of modern diesel engines.
Developed on the basis of urea and demineralized water, AdBlue (brand name) is injected into the exhaust system, causing a chemical reaction when in contact with the gases that allows a reduction in emissions, especially the infamous NOx emissions (nitrogen oxides).
As you know, this is a non-toxic solution. However, it is highly corrosive, which is why refueling is usually carried out in the workshop. To ensure that this happens, manufacturers have developed the system so that the tank's autonomy is sufficient to cover the kilometers between overhauls.
But what happens if that replenishment is not done and AdBlue runs out? Well, after some time ago we have listed the (few) malfunctions that this system may know, today we bring you the answer to this question.
Does it end suddenly?
First of all, let us warn you that if you stick to the brand maintenance plan for your car, chances are you'll never run out of AdBlue in the (specific) tank.
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However, when AdBlue consumption is higher (something boosted by mostly urban use) it can be used up before the review.
In this case, the car issues a warning that it needs to be refueled (some models even have an indicator of the AdBlue level). Some of these warnings are quite early, so it may still be possible to travel up to a thousand kilometers before it is really necessary to refuel (varies from model to model).
And if it ends?
First of all, let us tell you that the fact that it runs out does not damage the engine or exhaust system. The most obvious initial consequence is that your car will no longer meet the anti-pollution standards for which it was approved.
If you're on the road and your AdBlue runs out, you can also rest assured that the engine won't stop (even for safety reasons). But what can and will probably happen is that your income is limited, and it may not exceed a certain rotation regime (in other words, it enters the famous “safe mode”).
In this case, the ideal is that you look as soon as possible for a refueling station where you can replenish AdBlue.
Although the engine does not turn off while driving (as it would if the diesel ran out), there is nevertheless the possibility that if you turn it off, it won't restart without first refilling it with AdBlue.
The good news is that even if this happens, after refueling with AdBlue, the engine should return to its normal operation as soon as it detects refueling, and there will be no malfunction.
Even so, just in case, we advise you to carry a small reserve of AdBlue in your car, these being sold at most gas stations.