PriceProtect™
DriveShield™
GarageGuard™
Services
Insurance
Car Insurance
Compare Car Insurance with Jerry
Jerry’s Expert Advice
Car Insurance Estimates
Home & Renters Insurance
Renters Insurance
Loans
Car Loan
Compare Car Loans with Jerry
Jerry's Expert Advice
Car Loan Guides
Repairs
Car Repair Estimates
Repair Estimates for Popular Services
Advice
Read Car Content
Browse Jerry Car Advice
Check Out Expert Car QnA
Learn About How We Create Content
Jerry Data & Research
What happens if you run out of DEF?
I recently got a diesel truck, and it’s my first time running low on diesel exhaust fluid (DEF). I’m still learning about proper truck care, but I’m just not sure what to do right now. What happens if my car runs out of DEF?
Kathryn Kurlychek · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
If you run out of DEF, you can usually get by with the simple fix of refilling the tank and restarting your vehicle. However, if you notice the DEF light appearing on your vehicle dashboard with unusual frequency, you may be looking at a bigger problem.
In some cases, this can cause your exhaust system to clog with debris—which impacts your engine’s ability to run efficiently and can cause your vehicle to break down.
DEF is a necessary component to the smooth operation of your diesel engine—so your truck won’t be able to run long without it. If you let your tank run dry, you may face serious consequences of hefty costs for repairs and replacement parts.
Keep in mind: DEF is a carefully regulated non-toxic substance with specific, chemical-purity requirements, so you should always buy pre-made DEF rather than attempting to make it yourself!
View full answer
- Gregory R.
WHY YOU CAN TRUST JERRY
Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.
Join 4M+ members in lowering their car insurance
You Might Also Be Interested
Read Advice From Car Experts At Jerry
.jpg&w=64&q=75){kind=avatar}
What Others Are Asking
Browse More Content
Insurance in Your State
Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance
No long forms
No spam or unwanted phone calls
Quotes from top insurance companies
