Can the Vehicle Still Run with Low Urea Level?
3 Answers
Diesel vehicles cannot operate with low urea level. The function of urea solution is to chemically react with nitrogen oxides in vehicle exhaust to produce non-toxic nitrogen and water, thereby reducing the emission of toxic gases in vehicle exhaust and minimizing pollution. The SCR solution has significant advantages in the National IV diesel vehicle exhaust emission treatment system, and automotive urea is an essential additive for the SCR solution. With the gradual implementation of the National IV emission standard for diesel vehicles in various cities, the demand for automotive urea may surge. Relevant information about vehicle emission standards is as follows: 1. Introduction: Vehicle emission standards refer to regulations on the content of harmful gases such as CO (carbon monoxide), HC+NOx (hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides), and PM (particulate matter, soot) emitted from vehicle exhaust. 2. Implementation Status: Starting from January 1, 2004, Beijing changed the vehicle exhaust emission standard from Euro I to Euro II, and by 2008, it officially implemented the Euro III standard.
I remember last time my vehicle's urea warning light came on, showing low fluid level. I was in a hurry so I reluctantly drove for a while, feeling the car had no power and the throttle response was as slow as a snail. A car-savvy friend later told me this was the system's self-protection to prevent excessive emissions. Urea is mainly used to treat exhaust gases. When the level is insufficient, the vehicle might still run but could limit speed or enter some protection mode. Prolonged driving in this state can harm the engine. It's advised not to gamble with it—better to refill at a gas station's urea tank or a dealership ASAP. It costs just a few bucks, and safety comes first. If it runs completely empty, the vehicle might not even start, causing big trouble. That time, I drove about 20-30 km before refilling promptly and was lucky nothing bad happened.
From my experience, it's best not to rush driving when the urea level is too low. Although the vehicle might still move, there are significant risks, such as sudden deceleration on highways potentially causing accidents, or the system automatically limiting power making it difficult to climb slopes. Urea is essential for diesel vehicles to reduce emissions. Without it, exhaust pollution increases significantly, and you might face fines from environmental inspections. When the vehicle alarm goes off, address it promptly—don't wait for real problems to arise. Regularly checking the urea level and taking the time to refill it is a simple task. Maintaining your vehicle is maintaining safety. I always remind my friends not to ignore such small warnings—they're actually protecting you.
