Emissions - 'AdBlue' Related Message Information
26 - AdBlue Related Message (Check AdBlue or Refill AdBlue) Shows in Instrument Cluster - Understanding AdBlue Messages
26 11 03
2026757/1
June 29, 2011
Affected Vehicles
Condition
Vehicle displays an "AdBlue" related message in the instrument cluster. MIL may or may not be simultaneously illuminated.
Technical Background
^ An "AdBlue" related message in the instrument cluster does not necessarily indicate that the fluid level is low. Some component faults can trigger
an "AdBlue: Fault!" (MY2011+) or "Check AdBlue" (MY2009-MY2010) message which simply means the emission control system has a fault.
Only the Refill "AdBlue" message indicates the system needs to be topped off or refilled.
^ The exact message shown will depend on the model year of the vehicle.
On model year 2011 and newer vehicles, a message indicating "AdBlue: Fault!" with yellow header and wrench symbol indicates a system
malfunction. This error has nothing to do with the AdBlue fluid level; therefore, no topping off is necessary. There should be a DTC stored within
the ECM relevant to why the emission system is in an error state, and the MIL should also be illuminated. Please see TSB 2024260 for additional
information on reading DTC's. The countdown of this system malfunction starts with 1,000 km/600 miles. This message header will turn red once
the mileage warning counts down to 0.
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On model year 2010 and earlier vehicles, a message indicating Check "AdBlue" with a yellow bottle and header (no wrench) indicates a system
malfunction. This error has nothing to do with the AdBlue fluid level; therefore, no topping off is necessary. There should be a DTC stored within
the ECM relevant to why the emission system is in an error state, and the MIL should also be illuminated. The countdown of this system malfunction
starts with 1,000 km/600 miles. This message will turn red once the mileage warning counts down to 0.
On all Q7 TDI clean diesel vehicles, a message clearly stating "Refill AdBlue" does not indicate any system malfunction. This is the only AdBlue
message which requires the system to be filled or topped off to return to a normal operating state. Please add a minimum of 1 gallon of AdBlue to
reset the "Refill AdBlue" message. A short test drive may be required for the system to fully recognize a refilled status. To ensure proper operation,
the test tool should also be used to adapt the tank level once filled. The countdown of this message starts with 2,400 km/1,500 miles. The message
header will change to yellow with 1,000 km/600 miles remaining. It will turn red once the mileage warning counts down to 0.
When contacting the Technical Assistance Center (TACS), please be very specific and indicate exactly which message (Figure 1, 2, or 3) is indicated
in the vehicle's instrument cluster.
Production Solution
This TSB is for information only.
Service
This TSB is for information only.
Warranty
This TSB is for information only.
Additional Information
The following Technical DIAGNOSIS AND REPAIR (s) may be necessary on MY 2011 vehicles to fully diagnose the concern:
^ TSB 2024260, 01 VAS test tool does not display DTC in formation from ECM when accessed through GFF
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All parts and service references provided in this TSB are subject to change and/or removal. Always check with your Parts Department and service
manuals for the latest information.
