What is AdBlue and how do I top it up?
AdBlue is a diesel exhaust fluid that helps reduce harmful nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. It is a non-toxic, colourless liquid made from high-purity urea and demineralised water. You can find it at most petrol stations across New Zealand and Australia, available at the bowser (pump) or in bottle containers.
AdBlue consumption will vary depending on your vehicle, driving conditions, and driving style. As a general guide, average consumption is around 3 litres per 100 litres of diesel.
Important: AdBlue is used in diesel vehicles only. Do not mix AdBlue and diesel together. The AdBlue cap will be blue, and the diesel cap will be black — always double-check before filling.
Topping up AdBlue
Fill AdBlue at a petrol station bowser or by using the bottle container.
Do not overfill — this can cause damage to the vehicle. If using a bowser, stop when the pump stops automatically. If refilling from the bottle, pour carefully and stop before it's completely full.
After topping up
Wait 3 minutes after filling before starting the engine.
Turn the ignition to "on" (without starting the vehicle) and wait until the AdBlue warning light turns off.
TIP: If AdBlue is overfilled - it goes above the sensor and the vehicle thinks it's empty causing the AdBlue warning light - this is a false reading and will go away once the vehicle has used enough AdBlue to go under the sensor - you should always check the gauge and not the warning light for AdBlue.
Understanding AdBlue alerts
Your vehicle's AdBlue system will alert you when levels are getting low. Here's what to know:
If a warning light appears while driving, you don't need to stop immediately — you can continue until you reach a suitable place to top up.
On many vehicles, the engine will not restart until AdBlue has been topped up if it is critically low.
To estimate your AdBlue consumption, divide the litres used by the kilometres travelled.
A note for larger vehicles
In larger campervans and motorhomes, the AdBlue warning light may appear more frequently due to higher usage — this is completely normal and not a fault with the system. Keep an eye on the specific range alerts rather than the light alone to know when a top-up is needed.
Where to buy AdBlue
AdBlue is widely available at petrol stations across New Zealand and Australia, both at the bowser and in bottle containers (commonly 5L, 10L, or 20L). It is an inexpensive fluid, so keeping a small container on hand for longer journeys is always a good idea.