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Mercedes-Benz of Stevens Creek

What Is Mercedes-Benz BlueTEC® Diesel Technology?

Mercedes-Benz BlueTEC® technology represents one of the biggest wins for clean diesel engines over the last several decades. First introduced in 2006, it was an answer to the American Bin 5 standard, stricter emissions laws, and increasing fuel prices at the time. First implemented in the 2007 E320 BlueTEC® sedan along with the R, ML, and GL 320 series, it quickly took the world by storm. For Mercedes-Benz, it is a fitting milestone, as the marque was also the first to introduce the first diesel-powered car engine, followed by the turbo diesel.

Keep reading to learn more about Mercedes-Benz BlueTEC® technology, including what it is, how it works, and how it improves driving.


What is Mercedes-Benz BlueTEC® Technology and How Does It Work?

Mercedes-Benz BlueTEC® technology consists of a proprietary liquid solution, AdBlue®, which works to convert harmful nitrogen oxide to nitrogen and oxygen. It is stored in the spare wheel recess, injected into the exhaust stream, and down the catalytic converter to break down these harmful gases, converting them into nitrogen and water vapor. A variable vane turbocharger also works to produce additional power. Thanks to BlueTEC®, nitrogen oxide emissions are reduced, solving an age-old problem with traditional diesel engines.

Over the past several years, different versions of AdBlue® have been produced, each iteration producing better results in terms of emissions and improved fuel economy.

Note, Mercedes-Benz no longer produces diesel vehicles in the United States.


How Does Mercedes-Benz BlueTEC® Technology Improve Driving?

There are many ways Mercedes-Benz BlueTEC® technology improves driving.

Arguably, Mercedes-Benz BlueTEC® technology's greatest impact is to the environment, proven to reduce up to 30% lower greenhouse gas emissions than gas-powered alternatives without sacrificing power. For example, the 240 horsepower and 455 pound-feet of torque 2016 GL 350 BlueTEC® have higher specs than its gas-powered equivalent, all while leaving less of a carbon footprint.

Other benefits of BlueTEC® include fuel estimates up to 8 mpg higher than gas-powered equivalents without sacrificing power.


What Are Some Common Problems with Mercedes-Benz BlueTEC®?

Your Mercedes-Benz BlueTEC® may suffer from issues that affect acceleration and fuel economy.


Clogged Diesel Particulate Filter.

A faulty EGR valve, faulty temperature sensor, or using the wrong engine may affect your diesel particulate filter's ability to trap soot. It requires raising your exhaust gas's temperature by over 1100°F. If your diesel particulate filter becomes blocked and has issues trapping the particulate matter, then it could cause a sluggish engine, revert into limp mode, or increase emissions.


Diesel Exhaust Fluid Heater.

A faulty Mercedes-Benz diesel exhaust fluid heater uses an electric heater to regulate AdBlue® temperature. If it burns out, AdBlue® can freeze, especially in blistering cold weather. If left unchecked, a DEF heater may need to be replaced.


Hardened Oil Gaskets.

Hardened Mercedes-Benz oil gaskets are likely due to oil leaking from your oil cooler. If left untreated, the oil will continue to leak. To replace oil gaskets, several components may need to be removed, including your intake manifold and turbocharger.


Limp Mode.

Limp mode refers to engine power loss, which also forces power reduction to other system components, including your air conditioner. It can be caused by a defective EGR valve, turbocharger actuator leaks, and other component issues. 


How Do I Diagnose and Fix Mercedes-Benz BlueTEC® Problems?

We recommend taking your vehicle into your nearest Mercedes-Benz dealership so that our professional technicians can diagnose any problems you are facing. Luckily, all of these issues can be flagged by your Mercedes-Benz check engine light so you will know when something is up and what to look for. 

All in all, BlueTEC® is integral to Mercedes-Benz's diesel-powered vehicles. The marque has constantly been an innovator, starting with the first diesel-powered car engine and hitting high marks with up to 30 percent less greenhouse-gas emissions than gasoline-powered equivalents.