Since the start of the year, drivers of diesel cars have had to face stricter rules regarding the use of AdBlue. These new measures aim to reduce pollution emitted by diesel vehicles and encourage more eco-friendly practices. But in concrete terms, what does that change for you, motorists? And why these changes?
Why is AdBlue so important?
AdBlue has become essential for modern diesel cars. It’s a kind of magic potion that helps reduce pollution by transforming nasty nitrogen oxides (NOx) into water vapor and nitrogen. Thanks to it, we can reduce up to 85% these harmful emissions. To put it simply, this liquid is injected into the exhaust where it transforms under the effect of heat into ammonia. The latter reacts with the NOx in the SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) catalyst, allowing diesels to comply with European anti-pollution standards, such as the famous Euro 6 standard.
Basically, AdBlue doesn’t just help us meet standards; it also improves air quality and reduces our impact on the environment. In short, a real ally for those who want to continue driving on diesel while being a little greener.
New rules and technical difficulties
With these new rules, if you have a diesel vehicle, you must now consume at least 15 liters of AdBlue every 10,000 kilometers. This means not only thinking about the planet but also taking out your wallet a little more often.
On the other hand, everything is not rosy with the AdBlue system. There are sometimes technical glitches such as crystallization of the liquid which can seriously damage your injectors or probes… Result? The vehicle can be immobilized and the bill easily climbs to 1 500 euros !
To avoid these problems, some have found the trick: deactivate the AdBlue system. But now, with reinforced controls, it’s risky! Disabling this system can be expensive: a fine of up to 7 500 euros. Enough to deter even the most daring!
What you need to know about technical inspection
Rumors were circulating about changes planned as early as 2025 for the technical inspection, causing a little panic among some drivers. However, Auto Sécurité and Sécuritest have reassured everyone: no new specific regulations are planned for this date.
The confusion mainly comes from the OBFCM (On Board Fuel Consumption Monitoring) system, mandatory for all cars put into circulation after the January 1, 2021. This thing collects information about your consumption but does not check if you have tampered with your AdBlue system. The first technical checks for these cars will begin in January 2025, but without new requirements.
Diesel: where are we really heading?
All these measures are part of a broader movement towards an energy transition and a fight against growing air pollution, particularly in Low Emission Zones. They also raise questions about the future of diesel in the face of the ever-increasing constraints imposed by these new rules.
Owners are therefore faced with a difficult choice: comply with the new obligations with the costs that this entails or gradually consider a more sustainable alternative? As our world moves towards cleaner energy solutions, it becomes essential to think about how everyone can play their part in this inevitable transition to a greener and more sustainable future. The future of diesel in the face of ever-increasing constraints is uncertain, as shown by the drop in sales of diesel vehicles in 2024.
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