Mercedes AdBlue Fluid for Diesel Models
Many Mercedes-Benz diesel cars such as the E220, C220, S350, G350, ML350, ML250 equipped with BlueTec technology use AdBlue® diesel exhaust fluid (DEF). AdBlue fluid is sprayed into the exhaust gases and reduces NOx emissions.
If you see an AdBlue warning light on your instrument cluster, it may be time to refill your Mercedes-Benz with AdBlue. Typical AdBlue messages are:
- Refill AdBlue at workshop
- AdBlue control additive See operator’s manual
- AdBlue range
- Engine start not permitted (AdBlue empty)
- Check AdBlue No engine start Possible in XXX miles/km.
- Refill AdBlue See owner’s manual
- AdBlue should be refilled at next opportunity
It is important to realize that if the AdBlue level reaches zero, you will not be able to start your car. In such cases, you will receive a warning message stating “No engine start possible.”
Where to Buy AdBlue for Mercedes-Benz?
The AdBlue used in Mercedes-Benz cars is developed by a European company called VDA (Verband der Automobilindustrie). If you are looking to buy AdBlue for Mercedes, you have several options. You can either purchase AdBlue fluid from a Mercedes-Benz dealership and add it yourself. A very popular Mercedes AdBlue alternative that many owners use is BlueDEF diesel exhaust fluid.
How Long Does AdBlue Last?
Typically, 5 gallons of AdBlue will last between 10,000 and 15,000 miles. The range will vary depending on driving habits.
How to Add AdBlue to a Mercedes Diesel
Adding AdBlue to Mercedes-Benz BlueTec cars such as W221, W463, W166 is very easy and straightforward.
- Open the fuel door cover.
- Note the blue cap next to the fuel filler cap.
- Add the required AdBlue. Do not mix AdBlue with diesel fluid.
- Make sure to add AdBlue to the correct tank. Do not mix AdBlue with diesel fluid. AdBlue is neither an additive nor a lubricant. Do not mix water with AdBlue.
Mercedes AdBlue Capacity
The typical capacity of a Mercedes-Benz AdBlue tank is 5 gallons. You do not need to add AdBlue every time you get gas.
Recommended AdBlue Service:
• Refill with AdBlue every 10,000 miles
• Every 20,000 miles, drain the tank and refill it
Make sure to add AdBlue as soon as possible if you receive a message on your instrument cluster indicating that the AdBlue level is low.
If the warning light comes on asking you to add AdBlue, you must add diesel exhaust fluid. Otherwise, your engine will not start when the AdBlue level reaches 0. Typically, you have about 1000 miles left from the point you see the AdBlue light until the system reaches zero. Don’t get stuck or stranded in a parking lot. Add AdBlue. AdBlue is cheap and easy to add.
Mercedes AdBlue Reset
In most cases, the AdBlue warning message should turn off after a few driving cycles. If it does not, try turning the key to position 1 (first click, accessories on) and wait at least 30 seconds. Then, turn off the ignition and wait a few seconds.
AdBlue Adaptation Instructions.
- Turn the ignition on once
- Press and hold the accelerator pedal. Hold the accelerator pedal down until the glow plug light comes back on. Once the glow plug light comes back on, remove your foot from the accelerator pedal. The glow plug light should flash several times.
- Wait for the glow plug light to stop flashing. Then turn off the ignition.
- Wait 10 seconds with the ignition off.
- Turn the ignition back on.
- Press the accelerator pedal twice. The second time you press the accelerator pedal, continue to hold it down until you see the glow plug light come back on. Next, release it.