NOx/Adblue/SCR/ DTC Removal
This section briefly explains a cars NOx Catalyst/SCR System, and how we can help if yours is giving issues. Click the below for some basic background, or use the tabs further down to find out how we can help.
SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) /NOx Systems
SCR is a method of removing Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) from the exhaust. This is done by converting NOx by use of a catalyst with an additive fluid, into diatomic nitrogen and water and sometimes carbon dioxide. (N
2 , H
2O and CO
2) The system is very sensitive and when not functioning correctly can create highly toxic exhaust fumes.
SCR Systems have their limitations, some of the most common problems we find are detailed below:-
–Contamination. Fine particles in exhaust fumes, as well as ammonia sulphur and silicone compounds can naturally block the SCR Catalyst. This can be accelerated by any Engine Malfunctions, but may still occur naturally.
–Vehicle Driving. SCR Systems work best in high temperatures. Driving at lower speeds or not driving longer distances on a daily basis can lead to the the additive fluid not completing its reaction, causing the catalyst to degrade.
-Incorrect Additive In most vehicles an additive is required for the SCR process. If the car is ran empty of fluid or the wrong additive is used it will degrade the catalyst and damage the injection system.
SCR Removal
Due to the sensitive and problematic nature of the SCR Systems, we recommend an advanced diagnostic before committing to a removal. Usually issues are fixable, however parts are expensive so weighing up all options is recommended. If removal is the best option, there are two methods – vehicle dependent :-
- Software – remapping the vehicle to remove the SCR software from the ECU.
- Hardware – how we stop the SCR Process. This is vehicle and fault dependant. Sometimes the software is enough to stop the process, or a electrical plug may need to be removed from a control module.
To Comply with DVA Regulations we must include Consumer Guidance for our Customers on SCR Removal Here
Auto-tune do not assume responsibility for the use of this service on a vehicle on public roads in the UK or abroad where emissions controls have been removed. It is the customer’s responsibility to ensure compliance with the rules and laws of the area of use. We would like to advise that it is illegal to remove any emission control devices or increase the exhaust noise limit on vehicles permitted to drive on public roads in the UK and most other countries around the world. Please check the rules and laws relating to this in your country. Any parts supplied or work carried out by Auto-tune are strictly for off-road use and may fail an MOT test. This means that we cannot accept any responsibility for vehicles being driven on public roads where removal of emission control devices is prohibited. If you carry out this work at our premises, we would not be able to road test afterwards. For more information click here.
DTC Removal / Engine Management
Engine Management Lights are designed to alert the user when a fault has occurred with the Engine System. (Your handbook is the best guide to explaining each light and what it means or which system it relates to.) Bear in mind there are other systems within the vehicle, Engine Management only deals with the Engine, nothing else on the vehicle (ie not ABS, Airbags, Gearbox etc).
Firstly – diagnostics are essential. This means plugging the car in, and having the results printed for your reference. If you can’t have a print-out, a picture on a smartphone is just as good, the exact detail on the diagnostics is key. Guessing the codes and descriptions at a later date will only waste time! We can do this, and many other garages.
With this information we can look at the next step. With Engine Management, some faults can be removed. On a system which isn’t essential, this isn’t a problem. Take for example – P1588 (N144/N145): Open circuit This is a fault with a valve controlling added damping to an engine mount. A genuine part could be £240+VAT, depending on car, and may need more than one in the lifespan of a car. Removing this code will have no adverse effect to the vehicle whatsoever, and be more than half the cost, again depending on vehicle.
Note:-
- This ONLY applies to the Engine Management System. Airbag lights, ABS etc cannot be dealt with in this way.
- If we deem the fault as “unethical” to remove – we simply won’t.
Your DTC Removal is completely guaranteed while you own the vehicle. For more details see our T&C’s here.
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