DEF System Repairs & Service

Don't Let DEF System Issues Slow You Down

When your Diesel Emissions Fluid system needs repair, trust the certified professionals at Recharge. We specialize in comprehensive DEF system diagnostics and repairs forall makes and models.

24-month/24,000-mile warranty protection
ASE-certified mechanics
State-of-the-art diagnostic equipment
Same-day service available

Diesel Emissions Fluid (DEF) Recharge Service Cost Breakdown

Basic DEF Recharge Service
Typical time: 0.5 hours
Labor cost: $62.50
DEF fluid cost: $15-25
Total estimated cost: $77.50-87.50

DEF System Inspection & Recharge
Typical time: 1 hour
Labor cost: $125
DEF fluid cost: $15-25
System inspection and diagnostic
Total estimated cost: $140-150

DEF System Service with Filter Replacement
Typical time: 1.5 hours
Labor cost: $187.50
DEF fluid cost: $15-25
Filter cost: $50-75
System cleaning and inspection
Total estimated cost: $252.50-287.50

*Please note: Prices are estimates and may vary based on vehicle make/model and system condition. Additional repairs may be necessary if system components are damaged or malfunctioning.

Why Regular DEF Service is Important:
• Prevents costly repairs to the SCR system
• Maintains proper emissions control
• Ensures optimal engine performance
• Helps avoid vehicle derating or shutdown

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) System Recharge Procedure

Here's a step-by-step guide to properly recharging your vehicle's DEF system:

Standard DEF Fill Procedure

  1. Locate DEF Tank:Usually found near the fuel tank or in the trunk area. The cap is typically blue and clearly marked "DEF" or with a urea symbol.
  2. Vehicle Preparation:
    • Park on a level surface
    • Turn off the engine
    • Engage parking brake
  3. Clean Fill Area:Wipe around the DEF cap to prevent contamination
  4. Add DEF:
    • Remove DEF tank cap
    • Pour DEF carefully using a funnel if needed
    • Fill until the tank is full or reaching recommended level
    • Don't overfill - allow room for fluid expansion
  5. Secure Cap:Replace and tighten the DEF cap properly

Professional Service Procedure

  1. Diagnostic Check:
    • Connect diagnostic tool
    • Check for any system fault codes
    • Verify DEF quality and level sensors
  2. System Inspection:
    • Check DEF lines for crystallization
    • Inspect DEF pump functionality
    • Verify injector operation
  3. Quality Check:
    • Test DEF concentration
    • Ensure fluid meets ISO 22241 standards
  4. System Reset:
    • Clear any fault codes
    • Reset DEF level monitoring system
    • Verify proper system operation

Important Notes:

  • Use Only Pure DEF:Never add water or other fluids to DEF
  • Storage:DEF should be stored between 12°F and 86°F
  • Shelf Life:Typically 12-18 months in proper storage conditions
  • Contamination:Even small amounts of contamination can damage the system

Warning:If your vehicle has entered reduced power mode due to low DEF, simply adding more DEF may not resolve the issue. Professional diagnostic service may be required.

What is Diesel Emissions Fluid (DEF)

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Common DEF System Failure Symptoms and Warning Signs

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) System: Signs of Failure and Maintenance Guide

Signs of DEF System Failure

Dashboard Warning Lights:

  • DEF warning light illumination
  • Check Engine light activation
  • SCR system warning indicators

Performance Issues:

  • Reduced engine power
  • Limited vehicle speed (speed derate)
  • Difficulty starting the engine
  • Increased fuel consumption

DEF Quality Issues:

  • Crystallization around DEF tank or components
  • Contaminated or degraded DEF fluid
  • Poor DEF quality sensor readings

Typical Service Schedule

Regular DEF Refills:

  • Typically every 5,000-7,000 miles for passenger vehicles
  • Every 2-3 fuel tank fills for commercial vehicles
  • More frequent for heavy-duty applications

System Maintenance:

  • DEF filter replacement: Every 200,000 miles or as recommended by manufacturer
  • DEF tank cleaning: As needed or during system repairs
  • DEF quality sensor calibration: During routine diagnostic services

Preventive Checks:

  • Regular DEF quality testing
  • Inspection of DEF lines and connections
  • System diagnostic scans during routine maintenance
  • Visual inspection for crystallization or leaks

Note: Specific service intervals may vary by vehicle manufacturer and operating conditions. Always consult your vehicle's owner's manual for exact maintenance schedules.

How It Works

  • Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
  • Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
  • We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
  • Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
  • All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.

What we need from you

  • A safe place to work on your vehicle
  • No working on the side of busy roads
  • No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
  • We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
  • Authorization from a property owner or management.
  • Repair work done in a parking lot or at your  requires permission.
  • We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.

Common Questions

Service Area

Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, GrandvilleKentwood, Walker, and Wyoming

Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.

Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.

What our customers say: