Urea solution purity

The following actions can cause serious damage to the DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) system:

  • Adding fuel or any unauthorised liquids into the urea solution tank

  • Mixing additives with the urea solution

  • Adding water to dilute the urea solution

Use only urea solution specified by ISO 22241 or DIN 70070.

If any unauthorised urea solution has been added to the tank, have your vehicle serviced by a professional workshop. Kia recommends visiting an authorised Kia dealer/service partner.

If any unauthorised or contaminated substances enter the urea solution tank, the following issues may occur:

  • Increased emissions

  • DPF system malfunction

  • Engine failure

Never reuse urea solution that has been drained from the urea tank during maintenance. Its purity cannot be guaranteed, and it may contain contaminants that can damage the urea system. Always refill the tank with new, unused urea solution only.

Specification of the standard urea solution

Only use urea solution that conforms to ISO 22241 or DIN 70070 specifications.

Do not use any liquids such as diesel, petrol, or alcohol in the SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) system.

Using any other type of fluid can damage SCR system components and deteriorate vehicle emission performance.

WARNING
  • When opening the urea solution tank cap in high ambient temperatures, ammonia vapours may escape.

  • Ammonia vapours have a strong odor and may irritate the skin, mucous membranes, and eyes. You may experience a burning sensation in the eyes, nose, or throat, along with coughing or watery eyes.

  • Do not inhale ammonia vapours and avoid direct skin contact with urea solution. If contact occurs, wash the affected area thoroughly with clean water. If irritation persists, consult a doctor.

  • When handling urea solution in enclosed spaces, ensure proper ventilation. When opening a urea solution container, pungent-smelling fumes may be released.

  • Keep urea solution out of the reach of children.

  • If urea solution overflows onto the vehicle surface, rinse the area immediately with clean water to prevent corrosion.

  • Be careful not to overfill the tank when refilling.

  • At very low ambient temperatures (below -11°C/12°F), urea solution may freeze inside the tank. When frozen, the urea level sensor may not detect the correct level until the heater defrosts the urea solution.

  • The defrosting time of the urea solution varies depending on driving conditions and outside temperature.

  • Using incorrect or diluted urea solution can raise the freezing point and prevent proper thawing, even when the system’s heater is active. This may lead to SCR system malfunction, which can result in engine restart inhibition.

CAUTION
  • If defective urea solution or unauthorised liquid is used, vehicle components such as emission control devices may be damaged. If defective fuel is added, foreign substances can accumulate in the SCR catalyst, causing clogging or catalyst breakage.

    If an incorrect or contaminated urea solution has been added, have your vehicle serviced by a professional workshop. Kia recommends visiting an authorised Kia dealer/service partner.

  • Do not use any liquids other than the recommended urea solution that meets ISO 22241 or DIN 70070 standards. Liquids such as diesel, petrol, or alcohol must never be used in place of the recommended urea solution.

  • If defective or unauthorised urea solution is supplied, damage may occur to vehicle components, including the emission treatment system. Defective fuel can cause foreign substances to accumulate in the SCR catalyst, leading to clogging, displacement, or breakage of the catalyst.