Autobytel Auto Extra: What Is Urea Fluid? *Video*

Diesel vehicles are known for their amazing distances they can travel on one tank of fuel. But they also have a reputation for being a bit dirty. But the latest generation of diesel engines have a number of new technologies that help clean up their act. One of those technologies can be found in the trunk of many diesel vehicles like the Chevrolet Cruze Turbodiesel.

In the trunk is a tank that holds Urea fluid (also called AdBlue fluid) which works together with the vehicle's exhaust system to help reduce nitrogen oxides that are produced during the combustion cycle. Urea fluid changes the nitrogen oxides into non-harmful water and nitrogen.

One note on urea fluid: If your vehicle is equipped urea fluid, it's recommended that the urea tank be refilled at every oil change.