What is a DEF head?
Emily Sparks
Published Jan 07, 2026
Essentially, the DEF head monitors the DEF system. The DEF head communicates the quality (or concentration of urea) of the fluid is within spec. It relates that there is, in fact, DEF in the tank (quantity). This part also reports the temperature of the DEF is in a safe range.
What causes DEF head failure?
The engine coolant used to keep the DEF reservoir warm is being routed the wrong direction, causing a DEF sensor failure.
Why are DEF sensors failing?
The shortage of new DEF sensor parts looks to continue for the near future, clearly affected by supply chain issues stemming from shutdowns and labor shortages caused by Covid-19 pandemic.
Can you bypass DEF system?
If you're thinking of bypassing any of your diesel's emission controls, remember that that it's highly illegal and the fines can be steep. The chances of getting caught may be low, but the consequences are costly.
What is DEF truck?
Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is a solution of urea and water that's injected into the exhaust stream of diesel vehicles to turn NOx gases (harmful emissions) into nitrogen and water. This system is called a Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) implemented by vehicle manufacturers to meet EPA emissions standards in 2010.
39 related questions foundIs DEF made from pig urine?
Urea is an organic compound produced when a body metabolizes protein. (And yes, we expel it as urine.) But despite DEF earning the nickname “pig urine,” Diesel Exhaust Fluid is actually made of commercial-grade urea—synthetic ammonia and carbon.
Is DEF made from urine?
DEF is a mixture of (typically) 2/3 deionized water and 1/3 urea. It's carefully regulated by the American Petroleum Institute. Technically, urea is derived from one of the byproducts of urine. But it's synthetically made, so no cats are ever harmed in the production of the fluid.
Can you pee in your DEF tank?
Please do not urinate in your DEF tank, the SCR system will be damaged and it will cost thousands of dollars to repair. Here at Transliquid Technologies we specialize in providing the best quality of Diesel Exhaust Fluid.
What happens if you get caught with a deleted diesel?
Here is the specific fine from the EPA if you are caught with DPF delete: Violators are subject to civil penalties up to $45,268 per non-compliant vehicle or engine, $4,527 per tampering event or sale of the defeat device, and $45,268 per day for reporting and recordkeeping violations.
Should I delete my DEF?
The catch about a DEF system is that you have to keep its fluid reservoir filled regularly to keep it functioning properly. This doesn't just take time – it costs money, too. Deleting your DEF system can help save you money. Plus, your exhaust might have a bit of a beefier growl once you're done.
What does Blue DEF?
BlueDEF® Diesel Exhaust Fluid is a mixture of high purity synthetic urea and deionized water that is used in Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems in diesel vehicles. DEF is used to help convert NOx to harmless nitrogen and water.
Is there a DEF shortage in the US?
While DEF markets will likely remain constrained for most of 2022, there are some things you can do to stay in control. Increase Storage Capacity. With logistics challenges causing issues, having more supply at your site can reduce supply chain strain and provide more time between replenishments.
Why is there a shortage of DEF?
The liquid is sprayed into the exhaust system of diesel vehicles to convert harmful emissions into nitrogen and water. Severe shortages of DEF due to reduced production in China have been reported in South Korea, causing mounting concerns in the transportation and logistics sectors.
What year did diesel motorhomes start using DEF?
With the goal of reducing engine emissions further, specifically regarding NOx and particulate matter, the EPA introduced diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) 2010.
What is a DEF head sensor?
The DEF level sensor, which is part of the DEF sending unit, measures the level of fluid remaining in the DEF tank. When the liquid level is low, the DEF level sensor sends a signal to the vehicle's ECU which then triggers the warning light on the gauges or panel.
Will a deleted truck pass emissions?
Yes, you can legally have your emission system removed from your vehicle, but it requires recertification by the manufacturer and a new emission label and certification issued.
Is deleting DEF illegal?
Can You Get In Trouble For Deleting Def? It is illegal to tampering with DEF, but it happens anyway. Operators were prompted to get rid of the DEF systems or to use DEF delete kits to avoid using them. It's not just the risk of putting someone in jail if you violate a DEF system that's worth taking.
Has anyone been fined for DPF Delete?
Businesses who delete/modify DPF systems: A person who removes, disconnects or impairs the operation of an anti-pollution device fitted to a motor vehicle is guilty of an offence under the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997. On the spot fines of $1500 for a corporation and $750 for an individual applies.
Is Blue DEF cow urine?
Contrary to popular myth, cow and bat urine and DEF are not a thing. The urea used in the manufacture of DEF is synthetically derived from ammonia and carbon dioxide, and urea production plants are often adjacent to other sites where ammonia is produced, such as coal and natural gas refineries.
Is DEF toxic?
Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is not toxic, harmful or dangerous. In fact, of all the fluids used in a truck, such as diesel, engine oil, brake fluid, antifreeze and windscreen wash, DEF is the least hazardous.
Can you run a diesel without DEF?
Can You Run A Diesel Engine Without Def? There is no way modern trucks will run without DEF. Drivers of diesel trucks therefore need to check their fluid levels frequently in order to make sure they're as good as possible. It is everyone's responsibility to reduce emissions.
Do all new diesels use DEF?
A: Because almost all diesel-powered passenger cars and trucks built since 2010 are equipped with Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) and require Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF), it is readily available at most fueling stations and automotive parts retail stores.
Is DEF fluid urea?
It's called Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF). This additive is also called aqueous urea solution 32% or AUS 32. It's made from 32.5% urea and 67.5% de-ionized water.
How does a DEF system work?
Small quantities of diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) are injected into the exhaust upstream of a catalyst, where it vaporizes and decomposes to form ammonia and carbon dioxide. The ammonia (NH3) is the desired product which in conjunction to the SCR catalyst, converts the NOx to harmless nitrogen (N2) and water (H2O).