What is diesel exhaust fluid?

Diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) is sprayed into the exhaust stream of diesel vehicles to reduce emissions by treating exhaust gases after they have left the engine.

DEF makeup and purpose

DEF is a non-hazardous solution made up of purified water and urea. It is not a fuel additive. Colorless and similar to baking soda in its alkalinity (pH), DEF breaks down nitrogen oxides in the exhaust stream in order to meet emissions control standards. This technology is called Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) and is used in select models of Tier 4 equipment to meet applicable standards.

Tips for use and storage

• Store DEF at a temperature between 32°F and 86°F.
• Keep DEF out of direct sunlight.
• DEF should only be stored in a plastic or stainless steel container, as it can cause rust to form in raw steel containers.
• Use only a DEF nozzle. DEF tanks are sized to allow only a DEF fill nozzle to be inserted, ensuring that the proper fluid is pumped into the tank.
• Keep a supply of DEF available, because equipment will cease to operate once the DEF tank is dry. DEF tanks will hold between 15 and 50 gallons, depending on the size and horsepower of your equipment.

Fluid level indicators

• A DEF gauge shows the fluid level and indicates when it is time to refill.
• A series of warnings will alert the operator when the DEF fluid level is at less than 10% of capacity.
• Engine power is reduced if the DEF tank contains less than 5% of its capacity, although you will typically have enough power to travel a short distance and add more fluid to the tank.
• The DEF tank needs to be filled once for every 3 to 4 times that you refuel with diesel fuel. This frequency will vary with operating conditions.

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