So maybe you have seen this logo at your local gas station and have wondered, “what does DEF mean?” DEF is an acronym for Diesel Exhaust Fluid. Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is something that is used in the fueling and fleet world, guiding truck drivers towards making their diesel vehicles more eco-friendly. Read on to learn more about DEF and how it works. DEF is available at all of our Pacific Pride stations at our Sunoco locations in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
What is Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) Made of?
Diesel Exhaust Fluid is created from about two parts deionized water–highly purified H2O– and one part urea–often used in fertilizers. Urea is also a compound found in urine, although it is not urine in the DEF form. DEF is a liquid that is primarily water, so it is isn’t expensive either to fill your tanks with, and it is non-flammable and non-toxic to the skin. Do not ingest the fluid.
How Does DEF Work?
Simply put, the combination works together in your Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system to remove the bad nitrogen oxide particles from your exhaust and converts it into water vapor and pure nitrogen. As your vehicle creates the nitrogen oxide gas, the DEF is sprayed onto the toxic gas, which reduces it down to the significantly less harmful vapor. It is then emitted like normal exhaust from your vehicle.
How Do You Know When to Fill Up DEF?
When it is time to refill your DEF, most newer vehicles are equipped with a DEF notification on your dashboard–as shown above, helping you know when it’s time to fill up, or you can get indicators installed on your truck if it hasn’t been already. It is important to never ignore warnings to refill your DEF, as the EPA requires Diesel Exhaust Fluid in your truck to operate. The refilling frequency will vary based on the make of your vehicle and the regularity of travel. With DEF, it is likely that you will have better fuel efficiency and less wear on your engine. Plus, it is significantly less harmful to the atmosphere.
Where Can I Fill Up DEF?
DEF is available in jugs or at the pump. Our Goshen Road, Mac Card North, and Wayne Haven Sunoco stations offer Diesel Exhaust Fluid on our fuel islands at our commercial fueling stations. Find a location here:
- Goshen Road – 4136 W. Washington Ctr Rd, Fort Wayne, IN 46818
- Wayne Haven – 6925 E US 930, Fort Wayne, IN 46803
- Mac Card North – 4600 Industrial Road, Fort Wayne, IN 46808
- Brookwood – 10317 Bluffton Road, Fort Wayne, IN 46809
For more information on DEF, click here.