10 Myths and Facts About Diesel Exhaust Fluid

Most people are familiar with diesel fuel. Almost everything runs on diesel engines, from mechanical machines to power generators and locomotive drives. Their realm extends to nearly all industries and can be observed daily if you look under the hood of everything you pass by.

Diesel is primarily used in vehicles, especially trucks. This fuel type has an overall higher energy content, and efficiency led to an increased fuel economy. As a result, cars that run on diesel power are more economical than gasoline-powered vehicles. Diesel is also often a fuel of choice for being environmentally friendly since its low additive content leads to fewer greenhouse gas emissions.

However, diesel fuel is different from diesel exhaust fluid (DEF). It is a high purity solution of 32.5% urea and 67.5% de-mineralized water for specific use in Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems. Many diesel engine manufacturers chose SCR technology to reduce emissions and meet the 2010 EPA Emission Standards.

Diesel Exhaust Fluid is often used in SCR engines for on-road diesel vehicles such as heavy-duty trucks and machinery to operate within federal emission guidelines. Since the emission standard has started to include cars, generators, and various engines, DEF is no longer solely used for trucks. The increase in regulations has made DEF increasingly crucial in keeping emissions down.

While anyone can easily recognize diesel fuel, not everyone knows DEF. Diesel exhaust fluid is not common knowledge in terms of power and businesses that require various oil-related products. Some even may have been left wondering, “What is DEF?” or “What does diesel exhaust fluid do?”

As such, it’s only natural to have a lot of misunderstandings about the fluid. The purpose of this infographic by Pure Diesel Power is to provide an outline of the most common myths and misinformation surrounding diesel exhaust fluid. After reading this article, you will be better prepared to make informed decisions regarding your vehicle.