What is Diesel Exhaust Fluid?
Photo: Chevrolet
If you drive a diesel-powered vehicle, you’ll have some unique maintenance tasks to keep track of. Unlike gas-powered cars, diesel trucks have a smog-cutting system that sprays diesel exhaust fluid, abbreviated as DEF. Here’s a look at what you need to know about DEF.
What does DEF do?
DEF cuts down on the pollution produced by diesel trucks. When diesel fuel combusts, it produces toxic chemicals called oxides of nitrogen, often abbreviated to NOx. DEF is sprayed into the exhaust, causing a chemical reaction that turns dangerous NOx into harmless nitrogen.
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Major Vehicle Problems That Are Easy to Prevent (But Hard to Fix)
No one wants to deal with an expensive, hard-to-fix automotive disaster. While some mechanical failures are practically inevitable due to wear and tear, there are a few major problems that you can stave off with only minor effort. Here’s a look at some car-killing issues that you can usually avoid with a bit of maintenance and attention.
Seized engine
Engines are complex and expensive, so a seized engine can be a total car killer. Seizing occurs due to worn components, a lack of oil, overheating, and when rust welds engine components together, preventing them from running smoothly. No matter how it occurs, when seizing happens, you’re usually better off cutting your losses and getting a new (or new-to-you) vehicle.
Hidden Signs That Your Vehicle Needs Service
Strange sounds
When you’re cruising down the road, you should typically be able to hear the engine, the radio, the climate control system, and a bit of ambient road noise. But if you aren’t listening, you may tune out any rattling, clunking, clicking, or grinding noises that your vehicle is making. If it sounds like there’s a coin tumbling around in a clothes dryer, there may be a loose lug nut in one of the hub caps. Grinding or squealing brakes indicate that it’s time for new brake pads or shoes. If you hear clicks or snaps when you steer, there’s probably an issue with the joints on your car’s front axle. And if you hear tapping or banging from under the hood, there may be a problem with the engine’s rods, pistons, or valves. Have your car checked out as soon as possible.