UREA

[JIM KELLER]

Those of you considering a new pick up in 2011 should be aware of the new EPA guidelines. Ford, GM and Chrysler now include a five gallon [ approx ] tank of Diesel Exhaust Fluid on their diesel trucks. The DEF, called Urea is sprayed into the exhaust to lower emissions. Most trucks will travel 5000 miles on a tank. Mileage of reduced numbers to 2500 to 3000 miles when pulling trailers are now being reported. When the Urea level gets low owners are advised on the dash the speed limit is reduced to 55 mph. Next mesage will be 50 mph for 300 more miles. If the reservoir does not receive additional fluid the motors are reduced to idle speed only. The Diesel Exhaust Fluid got the name Urea due to a chemical make up similar to urine.

[Gary Carmichael]

I understand or have been told when in a pinch you can substitute urine. guess I won't be stopping at reststops any more and the truckers bottle bombs will be a thing of the past.

[truk4u]

Hmmm. Jdub just got a 2011, I drove it at the Hanger Fest and I don't recall any of that.

Dub?

[Coloradobus]

Our new 2010 Mercedes Sprinter passnger van aka Airstream tower, has the Urea. However, Mercedes gives you 20 starts of running the engine when the Urea is low then out. On the 21st start, it won't. They say under normal non-torcherous driving one doesn't have to refill the Urea for 10,000 miles. Just fill it when you get your oil changed. Heavier service will reduce the distance. UPS says they are refilling at 7500 mile intervals.

[AprilWhine]

Our 2011 X5 has Urea injection, it's a non issue. BMW refills the reservoir when we take the car for regularly scheduled maintenance, and I've seen urea available at some truck stops. Makes for a very clean running diesel! Our average mileage so far is a bit less than 30, very happy with it.

[truk4u]

Tool Man,

Just curious, what's that diesel exhaust pee cost when it's time to refill?