If you're having trouble resetting the DEF on your car, then you came to the right place. We have researched why your DEF isn't resetting and what you should do about it.
The DEF system fault is an issue that a lot of vehicle owners face, and there are a few ways to address the problem.
First, pour in more than a gallon of DEF and let your car idle for a few seconds before driving it around at a low speed until the warning sign resets.
If that doesn't work, you can reset the system with the use of an OBD2 reader to clear the fault codes.
In this article, we will explain further what you need to do when it comes to resetting the DEF system and just what DEF does to your vehicle.
Additionally, we will talk about some commonly asked questions, like how to properly store DEF, and if it is dangerous to have around the house. Continue reading to find out more.
Why Your Diesel Exhaust Fluid Is Not Resetting
If you tried refilling the DEF tank to its required amount and the warning sign still keeps flashing, know that you're not alone. Many car owners have been through this experience. But why does this happen?
For starters, you may have overfilled or underfilled the DEF tank. You need to pour in more than a gallon each time to avoid having a system error. Always leave a third of space inside the DEF tank to avoid the same issue.
Other times, the problem could be due to having a faulty sensor. If that's the case, it's best to have it checked immediately to avoid future issues.
Sometimes the problem is due to human error. For example, pouring DEF into the wrong tank is a quick method of destroying the system.
Another example is pouring the incorrect DEF fluid into your vehicle, wrecking the system in the process as well.
During these cases, it's best to take your car to an auto shop immediately. They'll easily resolve those mistakes for you—for a cost.
But if the system error is due to overfilling or underfilling the DEF tank, you can easily reset the system as we mentioned earlier.
First, pour a gallon of DEF into the tank if you underfilled it. Then, let it idle for a couple of seconds before taking it out for a slow drive until the warning sign goes away.
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If you overfilled the DEF tank, then try disconnecting the connector of the negative battery.
You need to wait for at least half an hour to drain all the power from the engine computer before turning it back on.
Lastly, you can use an OBD2 reader. This helps clear away those faulty signals.
Check out this OBD2 reader on Amazon.
What Is Diesel Exhaust Fluid?
DEF is a solution whose two main components are water and urea. Its primary function is to reduce the harmful gas emissions of vehicles with a diesel engine.
It achieves this by breaking down those harmful gasses into nitrogen and water. Despite being around for just a little over a decade, DEF is playing a massive role in reducing air pollution.
And all of this comes without having to sacrifice power and efficiency from the car's engine.
Check out this diesel exhaust fluid on Amazon.
What Happens To A Car Without Diesel Exhaust Fluid?
When you ignore the car's warning signs about refilling the DEF tank, your vehicle will go into what many people call the limp mode. During this state, your car will run very slowly, as it's unable to generate enough power.
This is to ensure compliance with government emissions regulations.
How To Store Diesel Exhaust Fluid?
With proper storage, DEF has a shelf life of two years. During that time, you must keep it inside a well-sealed tank to prevent it from evaporating and attracting minerals from the air.
It's always recommended to store DEF in the manufacturer-provided container. But if you absolutely must store it in a different container, it's important to follow important guidelines.
When choosing a tank, avoid using certain metals. Some of these include aluminum, carbon steel, zinc, and copper. That's because DEF can corrode these materials over time.
Place the tank in a cool environment, such as a garage. Keep it away from direct sunlight and open air. Make sure that the storage temperatures are between 86 degrees and 12 degrees Fahrenheit.
You do not want the DEF to evaporate or freeze due to fluctuating temperatures. Once these are all in place, storing DEF at your home is easy.
Be sure to read: How To Drain Diesel Exhaust Fluid
How Much Does It Cost To Repair A Diesel Exhaust Fluid System?
If you are having trouble with your DEF system or there's an unexpected issue that you're not sure how to resolve, then you should take your car to auto shop.
The mechanic can tell you whether the DEF system needs cleaning, a minor repair, or a complete overhaul.
Generally, it will cost you around $800 to $1,500 to replace certain parts of the DEF system and clean the filter. A complete overhaul of the system will set you back between $2,000 and $5,000 on parts. Those prices do not include labor.
At the end of the day, you are looking at a price range of between $4,000 and $10,000. So it's best to take good care of your vehicle's DEF system. Don't let even the smallest issue get past you.
Note that different car models don't share the same price tag when it comes to repairing and replacing a DEF system. You should look up how much your specific car's model will cost you before making a decision.
Is Diesel Exhaust Fluid Hazardous To Keep Around The House?
Despite the role that DEF plays in your vehicle, it's not hazardous or difficult to handle. You don't need to wear protective gear when pouring DEF into its respective tank.
As we stated earlier, it's not that difficult to store around your home, as there's no risk of it exploding. It's not combustible, flammable, or toxic.
Still, that doesn't mean you can pour a bucket of it over your head. DEF is corrosive to the skin, so you need to wash it off thoroughly with clean water and soap.
You might also like: Is Diesel Exhaust Fluid A Hazardous Material?
To Wrap Up
If the DEF warning sign starts flashing on the dashboard of your car, there's no need to fret. Simply pour a gallon of DEF into your car and let it idle for a few seconds before driving around to make sure the warning sign goes away.
If that doesn't work, you have the option of either detaching the connector of the negative battery and leaving it for around half an hour, or using an OBD2 connector to simply reset the error code.
If you don't feel confident enough in doing any of these procedures, you can call in a professional mechanic to take a look at your car and help you out.