Early recognition and response to contamination could save you thousands of dollars in repairs. In this article, we share a bit about how to be on the lookout.

Signs that indicate contamination

The following are a few things that can occur before severe damage is inflicted through the entire system:

• Increase in DEF consumption
• Loss in effectiveness in removal of nitrogen oxide from engine exhaust
• Malfunctions with the Selective Catalyst Reduction system
• Engine derating
• Brown film layer on top of DEF inside of the tank

Impact of contamination

What happens to an engine that runs with contaminated DEF?

DEF is corrosive: When added to the diesel tank, many parts of the fuel system can suffer damage. At minimum, your fuel filters, high-pressure fuel pump, and injectors would require replacement.

Running on contaminated DEF would not only increase DEF consumption and lessen the effectiveness of emissions reduction, it would ultimately damage the SCR system and shut the engine down.

If contamination is detected

What happens if contamination has been discovered?

The necessary repairs from subsequent damage can cost thousands of dollars: If contamination is identified, do NOT start the engine until the tank can be drained and refilled!

All contaminated parts must be replaced to ensure further damage is prevented: There is no guarantee that simply cleaning the fuel system is enough. (Note that failing to repair a vehicle to the approved standard could void the warranty.)