What should I do if I misfuel with AdBlue?

Posted 19 February, 2020 Andrew Clark

Diesel, 91 octane, 95 octane, 98 octane, e10 – you’re probably familiar with the line-up at your local service station.   But what about that mysterious AdBlue bowser? AdBlue is a solution fed into the exhaust of newer diesel cars to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions. Despite the fact it’s dispensed from bowsers – just like diesel – AdBlue is not a fuel and can cause catastrophic damage if added to a car’s fuel tank. Compatible cars have separate AdBlue filler caps, either next to the fuel filler cap or in the boot. At many service stations however, AdBlue branding is poor and offers little explanation as to what the product actually is. AdBlue consists of water and urea, in a mixture ratio of about 70% and 30% respectively. Some AdBlue bowsers look almost identical to diesel bowsers, so it’s no surprise motorists are confusing the two and misfuelling. If you accidentally fill your car with AdBlue, or any fuel that it’s not designed for, don’t start your engine. This will circulate the fluid, potentially destroying complex, sensitive mechanical components. Repairs could cost up to $10,000. Keep your keys away from the ignition and call an RAA patrol. They’ll tow you to an Approved Repairer where your fuel tank will be drained and cleaned.