If you’ve been dealing with cars for a long time, you would know that diesel is quite popular. However, one major challenge with diesel is that it produces a high level of unpleasant particles, which is why you need a Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF). The primary work of a diesel exhaust fluid is to ensure that it reduces particulate matter. This article on the 7 best def fluids for Cummins, Duramax, and Powerstroke would help you make a perfect choice.
A def fluid contains 67.5% de-ionized water and 32.5% urea, which helps eliminate toxic emissions. The urea contained in a def fluid is converted into ammonia in cases when it is exposed to heat. This fluid helps increase the engine’s efficiency, enabling it to function with greater power and reduce power consumption. It helps extend the lifespan of your vehicle and allows you to slash your costs on fuel.
The best part is that it is an environmentally-friendly option containing non-toxic liquid; users can store and handle this liquid without fearing its safety. When used correctly, it poses no threat to human beings, wildlife, or even the environment. It also helps in improving the quality of air that you inhale, thus reducing the possibility of encountering health-related issues.
Do you want to discover the ideal def fluid for your vehicle? Read this article to the end to make some remarkable discoveries.
Best Def Fluid for Cummins, Duramax, and Powerstroke
We put together this list of the best def fluids after careful research and testing each product. We’ve paid attention to customer reviews and the satisfaction that each product offers before deciding to include it in the list.
1. Blue DEF Diesel Exhaust Fluid
SPECIFICATIONS
- Dimensions: 20 x 10 x 10 inches
- Weight: 23 Pounds
- Brand: Blue Def
The Blue DEF Diesel Exhaust Fluid is easily our top choice among others in the market for various reasons. This product is a non-toxic solution containing 67.5% purified water and 32.5% urea; it is neither an additive nor a fuel. When you inject the Blue Def Diesel Exhaust Fluid into the exhaust system, it will help you convert NOx into harmless components, namely water vapor, and nitrogen gas. The Blue DEF Diesel is a high-quality fluid that offers stability; it is odorless and colorless in nature.
It also meets the requirements that meet ISO standards and the American Petroleum Institute (API). When you use this product, there’s a sure guarantee that it will provide optimum SCR performance as it has gone through scrutiny. If you have a truck with a 20-gallon DEF tank, you can guarantee that it would run for 6000 miles with fill-ups every 300 miles.
PROS
- Reduces emissions
- Odorless and colorless
- High-quality product
- Eco-friendly
CONS
- It doesn’t have a pouring sprout.
2. Prestone Command Diesel Exhaust Fluid
SPECIFICATIONS
- Dimensions: 16.1 x 12.28 x 10.31 inches
- Weight: 49.4 Pounds
- Brand: Preston
The Prestone Command Diesel Exhaust Fluid was created to work effectively with SCR-equipped diesel engines. This non-toxic solution offers excellent safety as it is easy to handle; it consists of 67.5% water and 32.5% urea. It is a high-quality product that is suitable for maintaining SCR-equipped engines. This fluid is also compatible with AdBlue and other DEF products; it can work for any engine that your vehicle is using.
Furthermore, API and ISO have scrutinized this Prestone product; it has met their requirements. You can rest assured that the product will serve all your purposes without causing you any harm. It is a colorless, odorless, and stable fluid that helps in increasing fuel efficiency. However, you must note that the Prestone DEF reacts to copper, aluminum, and brass, which requires storing it in tanks made of steel.
PROS
- Non-toxic solution
- Suitable for all SCR-equipped engines
- Improves fuel efficiency
- Stable fluid
CONS
- You can only store it in steel tanks
- Average shelf life
3. Valvoline Premium Blue Diesel Exhaust Fluid
SPECIFICATIONS
- Dimensions: 16.44 x 10.56 x 13.13 inches
- Weight: 48.2 Pounds
- Brand: Valvoline
This product is unique because it allows on-highway diesel engines to meet the standards of EPA near-zero NOx emissions levels. It also considers off-highway SCR systems by helping them meet the requirements. The Valvoline Premium Blue Diesel Exhaust Fluid has been certified both by API and AdBlue; this indicates that it is safe to use.
In addition, this non-toxic fluid works best for trucks, pickups, and SUV engines as it provides optimal output. The Valvoline Premium Blue Diesel Exhaust Fluid is adequately packaged to ensure that the liquid remains pure and free from contaminants. If you need a relatively cheap DEF for your vehicle, this might be a perfect choice.
PROS
- Safe to use
- Improves performance
- Pure liquid
- Affordable price
CONS
- It doesn’t have pouring sprouts.
4. Genuine Ford Diesel Exhaust Fluid
SPECIFICATIONS
- Dimensions: 13.9 x 8.3 x 7.3 inches
- Weight: 23.4 Pounds
- Brand: Ford
Are you looking for a DEF to help you eliminate all harmful emissions in the exhaust? The Genuine Ford Diesel Exhaust Fluid is a good choice that enables you to meet the requirements of EPA to ensure eco-friendliness. As long as your vehicle has selective catalytic reduction (SCR) emissions, this DEF would work perfectly. It features a nozzle explicitly designed to suit forward Ford diesel vehicles and others within the same range as the 2011MY.
This nozzle promotes effectiveness by preventing the overfilling of the DEF tank. However, you must carefully choose only dispensing systems compatible with the Genuine Ford Diesel Exhaust Fluid. That way, you would save yourself from possible complications. This fluid works effectively by meeting the required purity standards by ISO.
PROS
- High-quality fluid
- It suits a wide range of vehicles
- Non-toxic fluid
- Colorless and Odorless
CONS
- Deceptive advertising
5. ACDelco Diesel Exhaust Emissions Reduction Fluid
SPECIFICATIONS
- Dimensions: 16 x 12.9 x 12.6 inches
- Weight: 8 Pounds
- Brand: ACDelco
If you’re looking for a relatively affordable means to improve your engine’s performance, the ACDelco Diesel Exhaust Emission Reduction Fluid is great. This fluid consists of a high-quality formula that contains deionized water and urea. It is an aldehyde free that reduces nitrous oxide, an environmental pollutant; it converts into nitrogen and water.
As a DEF, the ACDelco product is a harmless fluid that is non-flammable, stable, colorless, and non-toxic. You can easily transport this liquid without any fear. After all, it offers minimal risks because it is pure. It meets the ISO, API, and GM OE specifications requirements, and you can guarantee the product’s credibility based on these bodies. However, you have to buy nozzles separately to pour the liquid with ease.
PROS
- Affordable price
- High-quality formula
- Eco-friendly
- Easy to transport
- Non-flammable
CONS
- Terrible shelf life
6. AdBlue Diesel Emission Fluid
SPECIFICATIONS
- Dimensions: 14.1 x 8.8 x 4.1 inches
- Weight: 10 Pounds
- Brand: AdBlue
The AD Blue Diesel Emission Fluid distinguishes itself with its spill-proof nozzle; it makes pouring this diesel easy and convenient. This product is also notable for its long-lasting property; it can last 1,500 miles without fail. Despite these unique features, the AdBlue DEF still retains its optimal performance among others in the market. It comes highly recommended for BMW, Audi VW Mazda, and other vehicles with engines that need emissions fluid.
In addition, it meets ISO spec of 22241-1 and other requirements that certifies its credibility. The formula is harmless to your automobile, and it provides the safety that your engine requires. However, if you compare the quantity to the amount you’re paying, it is negligible. Despite its shortcomings, it is still easy for you to pour and store this fluid.
PROS
- High-quality formula
- Easy to pour
- Credible product
- Ingenious design
- Great spring-loaded bottles
CONS
- It is expensive
7. LAND ROVER Fluid Diesel Exhaust
SPECIFICATIONS
- Dimensions: 14.6 x 4.3 x 4.3 inches
- Weight: 4.93 Pounds
- Brand: LAND ROVER
The LAND ROVER fluid is highly compatible with Range Rover vehicles and Discovery ones. This brand offers you a 1-year warranty which means you can trust the durability and credibility of the product for a long time. Also, the container is easy to use; you can pour the liquid into your car without facing any complications.
It is a practical choice that keeps your engine in excellent condition. This liquid is a pure one that has no harmful chemical additives. It offers optimal performance for a reasonable price.
PROS
- Reasonable price
- Easy to use
- Ergonomic container
- Durable product
CONS
- There’s no information about licenses and certifications.
Buyer’s Guide:
Before you make your purchase, there are certain factors that you must consider. When you pay attention to these factors, it will save you costs, time, and energy. They include:
Eco-friendliness
The primary function of a DEF is to ensure that no toxic element that can harm the environment, individuals, and even pets is released. Ensure that the product you choose has been certified and licensed by the required associations. You can rest assured that the fluid would effectively perform the function. Also, note that the formula is accurate, so ensure the proper conversion of the Nitrogen Oxide.
Shelf Life
Imagine purchasing a diesel exhaust fluid that cannot last for long. This would only mean that your money would waste entirely, mainly if you’ve not used it for an extended period. Also, check the quality and design of the container to ensure that it would also be able to hold the liquid for long. If you can take note of these factors, it would guide your decision on the best DEF fluid from the market.
Ease of Pouring
You need a DEF that is easy for you to pour. This way, you would be able to avoid the possibility of spillages while you’re using it. The best ones have containers designed with pouring sprouts or nozzles that make the process easy for you. This helps you enjoy convenience while you pour.
Compatibility
Different DEF fluids work with various vehicles. You must choose a liquid compatible with your automobile to avoid complications. Certain fluids work best using trucks, heavy-duty vehicles, and passenger cars. Also, some fluids work specifically for specific car brands, which might make them inappropriate for your vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does DEF Fluid Affect Performance?
No, it doesn’t affect your car’s performance negatively. Instead, a DEF fluid converts NOx into water and nitrogen, making your engine perform better. Also, it impacts the fuel efficiency of your vehicle and improves your car’s speed. The purity of the fluid takes away all the emissions and harmful chemicals in the exhaust to make the engine function better.
- Is DEF Fluid Necessary?
Yes, if you have a medium or heavy-duty vehicle with diesel engines manufactured after 2010. The producers made it to inject DEF to reduce emissions. Your engine will reduce performance and speed whenever it runs out of DEF.
- How to Use Diesel Exhaust Fluid?
First, find the opening where you would pour the DEF. The exhaust fluid tank usually has a blue cap adjacent to the diesel tank. Use a funnel to pour the fluid into your automobile; you will find a sensor indicating the vehicle’s fluid level. Most containers have sprouts that make it easy for you to pour the liquid; there are also dispensers you can use if you get the tube from a fleet terminal.
Final Thoughts
There are many diesel exhaust fluids that you will find in the market. This is why this article has helped you narrow down the best ones you would find. Thousands of customers across the globe have reviewed them, and their manufacturers are concerned about providing first-class quality. Your Cummins, Duramax, and Powerstroke can remain in perfect condition if you use the best materials for maintenance.
Once you’ve checked the shelf life, convenience, and compatibility of the DEF fluid of your choice, it can guide you to make a perfect choice. Afterward, you can make your purchase and enjoy the many benefits of using the suitable fluid.