Why is my AdBlue sensor not working?
When the AdBlue sensor shows zero miles to shutdown despite a full tank, it may be a faulty sensor or system calibration issue. Start by checking the AdBlue fluid quality and level with a diagnostic tool. Reset the system using an OBD2 scanner compatible with VW’s emissions system. One of the easiest DIY methods to reset your AdBlue warning involves just your ignition and accelerator. Turn the ignition to ON without starting the engine. Press and hold the gas pedal for 10–15 seconds—this signals the system to recalibrate.Never overfill the system, either. This situation can create a vacuum within the tank that prevents the AdBlue from being injected into the exhaust. Consequentially, the AdBlue light may remain illuminated after filling. The AdBlue pump and circuitry are located on top of the tank in some cars.There could be several reasons why your AdBlue light is still on even after filling up the AdBlue tank. Some possible causes could be: AdBlue tank sensor issue: The AdBlue tank sensor may not be working properly, causing the system to think that the tank is empty, even though it’s full.Tips for AdBlue Resetting Keep filling the tank with AdBlue until the warning light goes off. Ignite the engine and keep it running for a few minutes to detect the new level of AdBlue. Now, switch off the engine and restart to verify if the system has recognised the new volume of AdBlue.
How do I reset my AdBlue sensor?
One of the easiest DIY methods to reset your AdBlue warning involves just your ignition and accelerator. Turn the ignition to ON without starting the engine. Press and hold the gas pedal for 10–15 seconds—this signals the system to recalibrate. If you ignore the warnings and run out of AdBlue, your power and performance will be limited until you top up again. If you’re completely out of AdBlue, your car won’t start. So if you are running low, make sure to top up your tank to avoid the inconvenience of a breakdown.After topping up AdBlue®, do not start the vehicle until its onboard computer has validated the refill. This can take a couple of minutes but once you get confirmation it’s worked, you’re good to go.You should never allow your car to run out of AdBlue. If it does, the engine will go into ‘limp’ mode, drastically reducing power to keep NOx emissions within legal limits. A warning will appear on the driver’s display, and you should refill the AdBlue tank as soon as possible.Manually Resetting the AdBlue Warning Light Restart the car : Simply restarting your vehicle after refilling the AdBlue tank may be enough to turn off the warning light. Perform a Driving Cycle : Sometimes, the warning light disappears after driving a certain distance or completing multiple trips.When the AdBlue warning light remains after refilling, the system may need a reset or sensor check. The AdBlue tank level sensor or dosing unit could be faulty or clogged. After filling, drive the vehicle to allow the system to recalibrate.
Can you drive with a faulty AdBlue sensor?
If the warning light is indicating a problem with the AdBlue system, such as a malfunctioning sensor, pump, or injector, it’s best to avoid driving the vehicle until the issue is resolved. The white warning will appear when the remaining range of AdBlue® is approximately 1,500 miles, and is repeated every 62 miles until the range reaches 1,000 miles, at which point the warning turns amber. This warning is repeated every 31 miles and is accompanied by an audible tone.Most vehicles which require adblue will give you a warning when there’s about 2-3 litres left. Depending on the vehicle and how you drive it, this will give you about 1,200 to 1,500 mile range.Dashboard Warning Lights One of the clearest signs that something is wrong with your AdBlue® system is the appearance of warning lights on your dashboard. Most modern diesel vehicles are equipped with sensors that monitor the SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) system and will alert you if there is a problem.Manually Resetting the AdBlue Warning Light Restart the car : Simply restarting your vehicle after refilling the AdBlue tank may be enough to turn off the warning light. Perform a Driving Cycle : Sometimes, the warning light disappears after driving a certain distance or completing multiple trips.In most cases, a car dashboard warning light will appear to alert you that the level of AdBlue is running low. In the case of Volkswagen, the first message appears when the remaining range is 1,500 miles, and is repeated every 62 miles until the range reaches 1,000 miles.
How much to fix AdBlue?
AdBlue pump repairs vary depending on the fault: Basic diagnostics and reset: from £100–£150. Replacing filters or wiring: £150–£250. Full pump replacement: often £900–£1,500 including labour at main dealers. Filling up with AdBlue® at the pump will cost you less than buying a can, whatever its size. In fact, the price of AdBlue® at the pump is around £1. It is therefore more economical to fill up with this liquid at a service station.
Where is the AdBlue sensor located?
Access the sensor, which is usually in the AdBlue tank or AdBlue line, and may require the removal of protective coverings. Carefully disconnect any electrical connectors from the sensor and remove them with the appropriate tools. Overfilling the AdBlue tank can cause damage to the AdBlue system and can also cause harmful gases to be emitted from the exhaust. The AdBlue tank should be refilled to the maximum level indicated on the dashboard.Never overfill the system, either. This situation can create a vacuum within the tank that prevents the AdBlue from being injected into the exhaust. Consequentially, the AdBlue light may remain illuminated after filling. The AdBlue pump and circuitry are located on top of the tank in some cars.Attach an anti-spill nozzle to the AdBlue® container. If you do not have an anti-spill nozzle to hand, remove the AdBlue® tank cap and place a funnel in the top of the reservoir. Slowly refill the AdBlue® tank until it is full. Some vehicles require a dashboard reset after a top-up to remove the AdBlue® warning light.Overfilling the gas tank can damage your vehicle’s evaporative emissions control (EVAP) system. The EVAP system handles gasoline vapors, not liquid gasoline. Overfilling the tank can clog the vapor intake hole with gasoline and eventually get sucked into the charcoal canister.