The cost of replacing an AdBlue tank at the dealer is £2000. The sad bit is that it still can break down in a year or 2. The Nr 1 cost saving tip I give you at the bottom will save you 3x money and you would never have the AdBlue problem ever again.
Meanwhile before we get started on this cost guide let’s cover the basics: AdBlue tank is Integrated with the engine control unit ( ECU ) of diesel cars, the AdBlue tank stores AdBlue, a diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) injected into the exhaust system to reduce pollutant emissions. A functional AdBlue tank is vital to the proper workings of the Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system in every diesel fuel vehicle.
So here we go, were we discuss what replacement cost consist of:
In Short here is the Price Breakdown:
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Replacement Price | At the dealer you will pay £2000 |
| Factors Affecting Cost | Size of the tank, quality of components, car brand/model, additional repairs required |
| Cost-Saving Tips | DIY installation, frequent maintenance, warranty/insurance check, reputable service provider, secondary parts market |
Adblue Tank Replacement Cost
A complete AdBlue tank replacement for premium car models is unlikely to cost less than £2000 in the UK. In most cases, the replacement will also include changing some parts of the Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR). The SCR is the technology enabling the AdBlue fluid to reduce the toxic gases emitted into the atmosphere by the exhaust system. A typical AdBlue tank replacement covers everything—the new tank, the AdBlue fluid, the level sensor installed to measure the fluid level in the storage tank, and every other required item.
The service technician will check if the NOX sensor requires a change. The NOX sensor notifies the engine control unit of the amount of nitrogen oxides in exhaust gases. Sometimes, a faulty NOX sensor can cause the AdBlue system to malfunction, causing the dashboard warning light to light up with fault codes displaying. £2000 will most likely settle the bill to handle all these for most vehicles. But note that you can spend a little more or less, depending on the:
Cost Drivers
- Size of the AdBlue tank
- Quality of the components
- Car brand/model
- Extent of additional repairs required
Size of the AdBlue tank
AdBlue tanks are of different capacities. Generally, the displacement volume of your vehicle’s engine will determine what tank size to install. For example, if you use the 1.6 engine, a 17-litre capacity is fine. You can leave the dealer to figure out what tank size is best. But bear in mind that the choice of what tank to install greatly impacts the final replacement/repair cost.
Quality of Components
This is unlikely to be a problem if your brand’s dealer handles the tank installation. But if you intend to use a random repair service, it is typical that different technicians will quote differently, depending on the quality of the components they intend to use. So, find out whether the components are new, used, OEM-made, or aftermarket.
Tank type Approximate Cost (£)
| Condition | Price |
|---|---|
| Used | £300 – £500 or more |
| New | £1,200 – £2,000 |
Car Brand and Model
Luxury and high-performance vehicles tend to have more complex SCR systems, which often translates to higher replacement costs. For example, replacing an AdBlue tank in a Mercedes-Benz may be more expensive than replacing a Vauxhall.
Vehicle Brand Approximate Cost (£)
- Peugeot: £800 – £1200
- Mercedes: Benz £900 – £1800
- Volkswagen: £800 – £1100
The extent of additional repairs required
The AdBlue system is an integral part of the SCR system. So, it works with other parts to efficiently reduce the nitrogen oxide content of the exhaust gas released from diesel engines. Suppose there are sensor problems, or a major repair/replacement is needed on any other part connected to the AdBlue system operations, like the AdBlue injector, the sensors, the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF), or the AdBlue hose. In such cases, you can expect to spend extra money.
AdBlue Replacement Cost-Saving Ideas
Here are some tips that can help reduce AdBlue tank replacement/repair costs:
1. Add Blue Delete
Consider deleting AdBlue all together from your system. It a software update that removes AdBlue system from your car. Protected with a lifetime guarantee. Which means If the problem happens again the technician fix it for FREE. Plus it 3x cheaper than replacing. Does your mechanic offers a lifetime guarantee? If not get our AdBlue delete service because we do.
2. Mechanically-inclined? Go DIY
If you’re good with your hands, going the DIY route to install a new tank or resolve any other minor AdBlue fault will save you some bucks. Depending on the extent of replacement required, you will require a removal kit, the AdBlue tank replacement itself, and new AdBlue fluid to pour into the tank. If there’s no need for a new sensor, you can have a used AdBlue tank in your vehicle with a budget of £700. Of course, a new tank will cost you more.
If you have the AdBlue fluid in a drum, you will need an AdBlue pump to fill the new tank. While filling up, handle the AdBlue nozzle well to ensure the fluid doesn’t enter the fuel tank. An automatic nozzle is easier to handle if you’re a starter. If you accidentally put AdBlue into the diesel tank, seek the intervention of a professional immediately.
3. Frequent Maintenance
Frequent maintenance can help keep your catalytic converter system optimal and prevent Adblue issues that often warrant extra repair and major replacements. So, clean your tank often and ensure the fluids are always topped up. Beyond frequent maintenance, endeavour to fix every AdBlue issue promptly. Take immediate action once the engine management light lits or you see an error code on the dashboard.
4. Warranty and Insurance
Pull out your vehicle papers and see if it is still covered by warranty. If it is, check if this warranty covers an AdBlue tank replacement. Some comprehensive car insurance policies may cover the cost of a replacement in the case of accidental damage. So, this is another avenue to check out, especially if your vehicle is no longer under warranty.
5. Choose a Reputable Service Provider
If your tank needs replacing, working with a reliable and experienced vehicle service provider can save you a lot of trouble. For one, this ensures that the AdBlue replacement is done properly, saving you from future costs associated with improper installation.
6. Look Into Secondary Spare Parts Markets
Another way to save money when considering an AdBlue replacement is to buy parts from a secondary market. These parts are technically cheaper than those purchased directly from the vehicle’s manufacturers. However, you may want to ensure that they are of high quality and compatible with your vehicle.
Whichever route you take, a budget of £2,000 should get you an AdBlue tank replacement from a dealer in the UK. While this holds true in most cases, you may sometimes spend more or less. It all depends on the tank size, quality of components, vehicle model, and other factors highlighted above. However, handling the job yourself or taking advantage of your vehicle warranty or insurance covers can help reduce the final cost.