Ran car out of DEF

[worriedTDIowner]

My son bought a 2012 Passat TDI. He ran the car out of DEF and now it will not start. I think the problem is there isn't enough DEF in the car as he only added about 2 gallons. I have 3 questions: 1. does the DEF need to be filled to the brim? 2. Will the car restart on it's own after filling completely or does it need some kind of reset? 3. If it needs a reset is that something that can be done by us or does it need to be done by a dealer?

 

[Mike in Anchorage]

Due to a malfunction of the system not reading the DEF I put in, I also ran the mileage out. You'll need to take it [have it towed] to a dealer to get it to start again. They may charge for the DEF - it's a vague charge for them. They should correct the lockout freely, though. Good luck.

 

[Jetta_Pilot]

I really do not know why people rely on warning lights. After I've driven around 5,000 miles or 8,000 km I just get out my DEF refill kit and top the tank up.
I've never ever seen a warning light come on that way,
Use the container the DEF came in or buy a brand new 2 gal gas can and fill it up at a truck stop at about $ 3.00 @ gallon.

 

[scooperhsd]

WHEN the message on the dash comes on, it is TIME TO PUT IN AS MUCH DEF AS YOU CAN !! No Ifs, ands, ors or buts. Especially since it is not that difficult to find. Any auto parts store, VW / MB dealer, Walmart, quite a few Diesel fill up stations, convience stores, probably some others if you look in Automotive fluids / supplies.

 

[indy1976]

Does it matter if I buy BlueDef or the WalMart brand? Is there a difference? I'm going on a trip and I'm not sure when the dealership (VW Certified) filled the DEF.

TIA

 

[scooperhsd]

In fact - DEF makers are FORBIDDEN from advertising about different brands, since it is all the same stuff anyway....

 

[rupus2020]

32.5% Urea and 67.5% water. I work on fuel dispensers for a living. I despise the slimy stuff.