Diesel exhaust fluid is designed to mitigate harmful diesel exhaust pursuant to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations. Maintaining a diesel exhaust system is an important aspect of diesel vehicle care and compliance with regulations that govern the operation of these vehicles. With that in mind, it’s worth it to learn more about what diesel exhaust fluid is and how to avoid common problems with help from a diesel performance shop.

Common problems with diesel exhaust fluid

Diesel exhaust fluid problems can be difficult to deal with, so it’s important to minimize these issues as much as possible. Here are a few of the most common problems with diesel exhaust fluid and some advice on how to avoid these issues with your diesel exhaust system:

  • Contamination: One of the most common problems with diesel exhaust fluid is contamination. Diesel exhaust fluid is highly sensitive to contamination, and it must be kept as pure as possible to ensure proper functioning of the diesel exhaust system. Oftentimes, diesel exhaust fluid becomes contaminated when the cap is removed to refill the fluid. Dirt and other debris may fall into the fluid tank and cause problems for the system. One of the best ways to minimize the effects of diesel exhaust fluid contamination is to test the system regularly. A digital refractometer can be used to test diesel exhaust fluid to make sure it’s not contaminated. To avoid contamination, be sure to clean the diesel exhaust fluid cap before putting it back on to prevent debris or dirt from falling into the tank.
  • Mixing up fuel and exhaust systems: Another common issue that comes up for diesel vehicle owners is mixing up fuel and diesel exhaust fluid systems. Because fuel tanks are located very close to diesel exhaust fluid tanks, some diesel vehicle owners mix up the ports and accidentally put fuel into the exhaust fluid port or vice versa. The best way to avoid making this mistake is to take time when you’re fueling or filling up your diesel exhaust fluid system to ensure you keep all your vehicle’s fluids where they’re supposed to be.
  • Damaging diesel exhaust fluid: Diesel exhaust fluid can be damaged by improper storage, causing major problems for diesel exhaust systems. Make sure to store diesel exhaust fluid in containers designed for that purpose. In addition, avoid putting fluid containers in direct sunlight, and keep them stored indoors in a cool, dry location instead. Diesel exhaust fluid lasts about a year when it’s stored, but it’s best to minimize storage time to prevent degradation or contamination of stored fluid.

Visit our diesel performance shop

If you have questions about diesel exhaust fluid or custom exhaust for diesel engines, reach out to the team of experts at Coastal Diesel Injection. We have been providing comprehensive diesel services since 1995, and we continue to be committed to the quality of our services and the satisfaction of our customers. Learn more about everything we have to offer and get started with a quote and a consultation by giving our team a call today.