From an industry trucking forum;
AdBlue and emission systems breakdowns are common and a bigger cost to the industry then most would know. Most transport companies would ditch AdBlue if it was legal to do so, and there were not the large fines associated with its removal.
AdBlue systems, a key part of modern trucks' emission control, can often be a source of frustration for drivers and operators when they malfunction. Below, we explore a real-world case involving persistent AdBlue system issues, based on shared experiences and advice from seasoned truckers and mechanics.
The problem
The truck in question has undergone extensive repairs at a Scania service centre, including replacing the AdBlue pump, sensors, DPF filter, and a pressure sensor. Despite these efforts, the fault persists, leading to escalating costs and no resolution.
Insights from the community
Through shared experiences, several possible causes and solutions emerged. Here's a breakdown:
Wiring issues
Truck wiring, especially around the AdBlue system, tends to degrade around 700,000 km. Damaged or dodgy wiring can cause recurring issues despite component replacements. Inspect the loom connecting to the AdBlue pump and ensure it isn’t worn or damaged by nearby brackets.
NOx sensors
NOx sensors are critical for monitoring emissions. Even after replacing both sensors, some users reported issues with poor-quality replacements. It's essential to confirm the sensors are calibrated correctly and functioning as intended.
Blocked hoses or injectors
AdBlue system hoses and injectors can block up over time, especially following pump failures. Blockages can lead to excessive AdBlue consumption or trigger fault codes. Cleaning or replacing these components often resolves the problem.
Catalyst issues
A rock or buildup inside the catalyst caused by AdBlue residue can lead to overheating and trigger system faults. Cleaning or replacing the catalyst may be necessary in such cases.
AdBlue quality
Low-quality or old AdBlue can trigger faults. If the same supply has been used across multiple refills, consider switching to a new batch.
Turbo or exhaust contamination
If a turbo has blown and introduced oil into the exhaust, it could disrupt the AdBlue system's function. While not an issue in this case, it remains a common cause worth considering.
In summary (my interpretation);
I don’t think contamination, mechanical damage, wiring damage, or 700,000+ miles of wear are big concerns for most Ineos grenadier drivers. Freezing of ad-blue when stored prior to filling is an issue however that I think has potential for harm if doing a big drive and carrying it with you in cold climate conditions. That and poor quality /contaminated fluid would be my only concerns.