Every vehicle produces certain levels of harmful emission nitrogen oxide (NOx) gasses. The number of vehicles on the roads triggered a need to lower the emission rate of those gases. One of the means to do that is with the introduction of DEF in diesel vehicles. DEF has an impact on the vehicle and maintenance. If you are looking to buy a used Duramax, it is good to know what year did Duramax start using DEF.
So, what year did Duramax start using DEF? The first generation of Duramax engines that use diesel exhaust fluid is the LML. These engines entered production in 2011. since EPA made it compulsory for every diesel engine made after 2010 to use DEF. Every Duramax engine since then has had several pollution reduction systems, including the DEF.
But, how should you utilize this system? How to maintain it? What are the positives and negatives of this system? Stay with us, and we will answer all these and even more questions. Enjoy!
What is DEF & How Does It Work?
The DEF is a liquid made of 32,5% urea and 67,5% deionized water. The DEF is stored in the tank. From there, it moves through the DEF lines and is sprayed into the exhaust upstream of a catalyst. There it vaporizes and forms ammonia and carbon dioxide. It converts the nitrogen oxide emissions (NOx) to harmless nitrogen and water. The DEF is also marketed as a BlueDEF Diesel exhaust fluid.
Always keep an eye on the DEF tank because if you run out of fluid, the truck may go into limp mode. If you notice that you are running out of DEF, add around 2 gallons to the tank. One gallon of DEF will last between 300 and 500 miles.
Check Out What’s DEF and Why Do You Need It?:
When Did Duramax Start Using DEF?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) designed all diesel engine vehicles to have a DEF system from 2010. The Duramax engine implemented a diesel particulate filter, and from 2011 they also have a DEF. All Duramax diesel trucks have a DEF from 2011.
All these changes had the goal of raising diesel emission standards. Every diesel vehicle manufacturer measured the emissions. Then they compared the results with pre-DEF diesel trucks. They saw a major decline in NOx emissions in some cases by 90%.
| Duramax Model | Production Years | DEF (Yes/No) |
| LB7 | 2001 – 2004 | No |
| LLY | 2004 – 2005 | No |
| LBZ | 2006 – 2007 | No |
| LMM | 2007 – 2010 | No |
| LML | 2011 – 2016 | Yes |
| L5P | 2017 – present | Yes |
Why did Chevy Change To Def?
Like all other engine manufacturers, Chevy also had to implement all the new systems on diesel engines. Trucks with diesel engines have a significant fuel consumption, and thus they are known polluters. All this pushed the need for systems to reduce dangerous pollutants.
How Frequently Do I Add DEF to My Truck?
One gallon of DEF will last between 300 and 500 miles. Depending on the engine type, the Duramax has a capacity between 5 and 7 gallons. So, if you have a 7-gallon tank, you can drive for 3,500 miles. Be on the lookout for the level of DEF, because, in some cases, the truck won’t start without it. Sometimes, the truck will go into limp mode. In either case, do not let your truck go without the DEF.
Benefits and Drawbacks of DEF Truck
Emission control systems are often regarded as a drawback, but with DEF, there are almost no negative sides. There is the price of the DEF fluid and maintenance of the system. But, the improvement is evident when you compare it to the positive sides.
Pros
- Better fuel economy.
- Extended engine life
- Reduces engine heat
Cons
- Cost of fluid
- Maintenance of the system.
- Availability
Benefits
- Better fuel economy. The DEF optimizes the combustion process, increasing the engine’s power and reducing consumption. With DEF, you get more horsepower for less fuel consumption
- Extended engine life. DEF usage helps in reducing the build-up of engine deposits. That way, the wear and tear of all components is reduced, resulting in longer – diesel engine life expectancy
- Reduces engine heat. Increased heat puts pressure on the engine and raises the risk of overheating. The DEF reduces overall engine heat, reducing the risk of overheating.
Drawbacks
- Cost of fluid. The cost of buying DEF increases the overall cost of driving the vehicle. It does reduce fuel consumption, but the numbers are still higher
- Maintenance of the system. The DEF tank and injection system demand regular maintenance
- Availability. You cannot buy the fluid at every gas station. You need to have some in store, just in case.
FAQs
Can I Delete My DEF?
Deleting the DEF is illegal. Besides that, it may cause your fuel to freeze. Also, the engine will consume more fuel and lose some of its power. So, it is generally a bad idea to think about deleting the DEF.
Does a 2010 Cummins use DEF
Yes, it does. Cummings, made in 2010, are part of a 4th generation of these engines. They come with DEF, DPF, and EGR emission systems.
Does a 2008 Powerstroke use DEF
No, it doesn’t. The 6.4L Powerstroke from 2008 only uses the DPF. The Ford added DEF in 6.7L Powerstroke engines.
Does a 2008 Duramax have DEF?
No, it doesn’t. Duramax started using the DEF in 2011.
Stricter emission regulations require improvements to different systems of a car. With the popularization of biodiesel, the fuel in diesel engines became cleaner. The DEF is one of the most successful ways to reduce NOx emissions. The reduction can go up to 90%.
Yes, this system has a bit more maintenance and overall cost. But it also prolongs the work life of an engine and adds a couple of horsepower to it. The DEF is a good deal when you add that to that 90% in NOx emission reduction. Just keep an eye DEF tank, and enjoy your ride.
