Peugeot 308: AdBlue (BlueHDi)

To respect the environment and ensure compliance with the Euro 6 standard, without adversely affecting the performance or fuel consumption of its Diesel engines, PEUGEOT has taken the decision to equip its vehicles with a system that combines SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) with a Diesel Particle Filter (DPF) for the treatment of exhaust gases.

SCR system

Using a liquid called AdBlue that contains urea, a catalytic converter turns up to 85% of the nitrogen oxides (NOx) into nitrogen and water, which are harmless to health and the environment.

The AdBlue is contained in a special tank holding about 15 litres.

Its capacity allows a driving range of approximately 3,900 miles (6,500 km), which may vary considerably depending on your driving style.

An alert system is triggered once the reserve level is reached: it is then possible to drive for a further 1,500 miles (2,400 km) before the tank is empty and the vehicle is immobilised.

For more information on the Warning and indicator lamps and the associated alerts, or the Indicators, please refer to the corresponding sections.

Once the AdBlue tank is empty, a device required by law prevents the engine from being restarted.

If the SCR system is faulty, the level of emissions from the vehicle will no longer meet the Euro 6 standard and the vehicle starts polluting the environment.

In the event of a confirmed SCR system malfunction, it is essential to visit a PEUGEOT dealer or a qualified workshop.

After 685 miles (1,100 km), a device is automatically activated to prevent the engine from starting.

In both cases, a range indicator indicates the distance that can be travelled before the vehicle is stopped.

Freezing of the AdBlue

AdBlue freezes at temperatures below around -11ºC.

The SCR system includes a heater for the AdBlue tank, allowing you to continue driving in very cold conditions.

Supply of AdBlue

It is recommended that the AdBlue be topped up as soon as the first alert is issued indicating that the reserve level has been reached.

For the correct operation of the SCR system:

- Use only AdBlue fluid that meets the ISO 22241 standard.

- Never transfer AdBlue to another container as it would lose its purity.

- Never dilute AdBlue with water.

You can obtain AdBlue from a PEUGEOT dealer or a qualified workshop, as well as service stations equipped with AdBlue pumps specially designed for passenger vehicles.

Recommendations on storage

AdBlue freezes at about -11ºC and deteriorates above +25ºC. Containers should be stored in a cool area and protected from direct sunlight.

Under these conditions, the fluid can be kept for at least a year.

If the fluid has frozen, it can be used once it has completely thawed out at room temperature.

Never store AdBlue containers in your vehicle.

Precautions for use

AdBlue is a urea-based solution. This fluid is non-flammable, colourless and odourless (when kept in a cool place).

In the event of contact with the skin, wash the affected area with soap and running water. In the event of contact with the eyes, immediately rinse the eyes with large amounts of water or with an eye wash solution for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical attention if you feel a persistent burning sensation or irritation.

If swallowed, immediately wash out the mouth with clean water and then drink plenty of water.

In certain conditions (high temperature, for example), the risk of release of ammonia cannot be excluded: do not inhale the fluid. Ammonia vapours have an irritant effect on mucous membranes (eyes, nose and throat).

Store AdBlue out of the reach of children, in its original container.

Procedure

Before starting the top-up procedure, ensure that the vehicle is parked on a flat and level surface.

In wintry conditions, ensure that the temperature of the vehicle is above -11ºC. Otherwise the AdBlue may be frozen and so cannot be poured into the tank. Park the vehicle in a warmer area for a few hours to allow the top-up to be carried out.

Never pour the AdBlue into the Diesel fuel tank.

If any AdBlue is splashed, or if there are any spillages on the bodywork, rinse immediately with cold water or wipe with a damp cloth.

If the fluid has crystallised, clean it off using a sponge and hot water.

Important: in the event of a top-up after an AdBlue breakdown, you must wait about 5 minutes before switching on the ignition, without opening the driver's door, unlocking the vehicle or bringing the electronic key into the passenger compartment.

Switch on the ignition, then wait for 10 seconds before starting the engine.

► Press the "START/STOP" button to switch off the engine.

► Turn the blue cap of the AdBlue tank anticlockwise and remove it.

► With a container of AdBlue: after checking the expiry date, read the instructions on the label carefully before pouring the contents of the container into the vehicle's AdBlue tank.

► With an AdBlue pump: insert the nozzle and fill the tank until the nozzle automatically cuts out.

In order not to overfill the AdBlue tank:

- Add between 10 and 13 litres using AdBlue containers.

- Stop after the nozzle's first automatic cut-out, if you are refilling at a service station.

The system only registers AdBlue intermediate top-ups of 5 litres or more.

If the AdBlue tank is completely empty - which is confirmed by the message "Top up AdBlue: Starting impossible" - it is essential to add at least 10 litres.

Top-up detection may not be instantaneous after addition. It may take a few minutes of driving before the top-up detection is effective.