DEF Fluid
Fluids - all engines need them. And DEF is one that is important for you and the environment! We will explain the reasons for this strange but effective technology later (if you want to know). For now, let’s get straight down to the fun of driving this van; here is the information you need about AdBlue or DEF for your Sprinter.
Without DEF, a Sprinter van will stop running and not restart if you ever run out of it!
The Sprinter will tell you when it needs DEF, so please listen to it. It will even give you some warning messages. The van will start normally until it senses it needs DEF. Then the messages will give you a numerical countdown of how many starts you have left until you run out of the fluid. For instance, when starting your Sprinter Van it will say 10 starts left. 9, 8, 7, .. before you actually need DEF. Then don’t wait, go get it.
You may purchase DEF products in many gas stations, auto parts stores, or even Wal-Mart. Most DEF tanks for a Mercedes Benz Sprinter Van are about 6.6 gallons. You can get a 2.5 gallon refill tank of DEF for about $12.00, which is approximately $4.80 per gallon. So, it will take about $31.00 to completely fill up a DEF tank in a Sprinter Van.
Yes, adding DEF fluid may seem like a hassle. But, this easy, short process is something you will want to do--not only so you can enjoy the clean diesel engine for yourself, but also for the environment and our future generations.
Here is what you need to know: Replacing DEF is NOT some difficult thing is SIMPLE. You can do; it does NOT need to be done by the dealer. All you have to do is pop the hood and locate the tank with a cap on it that says DEF.
Now, just pour the Diesel Exhaust Fluid straight into the designated tank. Yes, pour it in--just like you do with that windshield washing liquid. The DEF fluid usually comes with a siphon hose, so it is very easy to pour. Try not to spill any of it (as it can corrode copper and brass parts in your vehicle). If you do spill, no big deal, flush it with water after you have closed the DEF lid and then wash your hands.
So thats it for the important part.
If you want, you can check this video on how to fill your Sprinters DEF fluid, AdBlue, Blue DEF, Urea--any nickname you want to give it is good:
Here some more more facts about Adblue for your diesel vehicle:
When you do the refill yourself, DEF is not a substantial expense. For example, if you own or rent a Mercedes Benz Sprinter Van with 6.6 gallon DEF tank, the tank will last you approximately 8,000 miles--which means you pay only $0.0038 per mile (one third of one cent). If you do 30,000 miles per year, this comes out to be $116.00 per year; a very small price to pay for a better planet and cleaner air.
The sole purpose of DEF is to make diesel engines cleaner. DEF (short for Diesel Exhaust Fluid) is injected into the exhaust fumes. This is done by a SCR (selective catalytic reduction) system. The process tremendously reduces oxides of nitrogen (NOx) emissions which can be harmful to our health and the environment.
Yes, diesel vehicles used to have a bad reputation for their smelly fumes and the black exhaust smoke from their tail pipes. However, those days are gone--with the use of DEF and the SCR technology of today, we now have a clean diesel engine. Another improvement to the system of these clean engines is timed-fuel-injection and an exhaust filter that catches minute airborne dust particles.
If you travel to Canada or Mexico, please buy AdBlue in the States..,you will not find it there easily.
FAQ about DEF:
What does DEF fluid do?
DEF is injected into the exhaust system to reduce NOx (oxide of nitrogen) emissions.
Is DEF handling dangerous or harmful?
No, DEF is nontoxic and does not pollute. It doesn't burn nor is it a hazardous material. You can touch it and smell it, and it is harmless to handle. It is sort of like a diluted urine, like when a small animal accidentally pees on you--it is not cool, but you will survive! However, do not swallow or drink it!
Does it freeze? Can it be used after freezing?
Yes, it freezes, just like water, at about 32.5 F. But don't worry, the DEF tank and lines in our diesel engine Sprinter Vans are heated, so it does not freeze while in the tank. And no worries if it freezes in your garage or trunk, you can still use it again after it thaws.
What are Sprinter-Rentals DEF policies?
DEF is not included in your rental. Our service team does check that the tank is full before your Sprinter Van is given to you, but while in operation you are responsible for any needed DEF.
Again, the purchase and process of refilling is simple, but if you need us to walk you through it, just give us a call at 619-264-0802 during normal business hours.
We look forward to sprinting for you.