Can I buy Adblue on a fuel card?

You can buy AdBlue on a fuel card, but only if your provider and fuel card allow it. 

If you run diesel vehicles, you’ll know that AdBlue is as important as the fuel itself. Without it, modern Euro 5 and Euro 6 diesel engines can’t meet strict emissions standards. For businesses managing fleets, the natural question is: “Can I buy AdBlue on a fuel card?”

The short answer is yes, but it depends on the provider, the type of fuel card you have, and the stations you use. Some fuel cards cover AdBlue purchases directly at the pump or in containers, while others restrict usage to fuel only. This guide explains exactly how AdBlue works, how fuel cards operate, which providers allow AdBlue purchases, and the main benefits and considerations you need to know.

Jump to:

• What is AdBlue?
• What is a fuel card, and how do they work?
• Which fuel cards cover AdBlue purchases?
• What are the benefits of buying AdBlue on a fuel card?
• What to keep in mind when buying AdBlue on a fuel card
• How to check if your fuel card can buy AdBlue

What is AdBlue?

AdBlue is a diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) made from a mix of deionised water and high-purity urea. It is injected into the exhaust system of diesel vehicles that use Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology.

When AdBlue is used correctly, the SCR system breaks down harmful nitrogen oxides (NOx) in exhaust fumes, turning them into harmless nitrogen and water vapour. This is what allows Euro 5 and Euro 6 diesel vehicles to meet strict EU and UK emissions standards.

If you run out of AdBlue, your vehicle will give dashboard warnings when levels are low. If ignored, most modern engines either won’t restart or will enter a “limp mode” to limit performance until the fluid is refilled. AdBlue can be bought in different forms:

• At the pump: Usually available on HGV lanes at service stations.
• In containers: 5L, 10L, or 20L bottles sold at forecourts and retailers.
• Bulk supply: Larger drums or IBCs for businesses running big fleets.

Did you know? AdBlue consumption is, on average, around 5% of diesel usage. For every 100 litres of diesel used, you’ll need roughly 4–6 litres of AdBlue. 

What is a fuel card, and how do they work?

A fuel card is a payment solution designed for businesses and fleet operators. Instead of drivers paying cash or using company credit cards, they use a fuel card to buy diesel, petrol, or other vehicle-related products at participating fuel stations.

The main features of fuel cards include:

• Cashless transactions at the forecourt.
• One simple bill for all fuel spending and invoicing.
• Cards can be restricted to certain fuels, oils, or services.
• Wide network access over thousands of UK stations.

Traditionally, fuel cards were restricted to fuel only. But most fuel card providers, such as Shell and Esso, now let you buy extras, including AdBlue, lubricants, and car washes. This flexibility makes them more valuable for fleet managers.

Which fuel cards cover AdBlue purchases?

Here are the main fuel cards that cover AdBlue purchases:

Shell fuel card

You can buy AdBlue using Shell’s fuel card both at the pump and in pre-packed containers. Purchases appear on the same invoice as diesel, making cost tracking straightforward. Shell also offers discounted commercial rates for fleets.

Esso Card National

Esso’s fuel card includes motor oils, lubricants, and AdBlue under its “vehicle-related products” allowance. You can then buy AdBlue on your fuel card at all Esso sites and some partner forecourts.

UK Fuels

UK Fuels cards let you buy AdBlue and other lubricants, depending on the permissions set by your business. Their network covers thousands of independent stations across the country.

Purchase AdBlue and fuel together on one powerful card from InterFuels. Get your free quote now and say goodbye to the hassle of fuel admin!

What are the benefits of buying AdBlue on a fuel card?

There are many advantages to buying AdBlue on a fuel card, including:

1. Simplified admin

Instead of processing separate receipts for fuel and AdBlue, everything goes onto one consolidated invoice. This saves you time on managing expenses and reclaiming VAT.

2. Driver convenience

Drivers don’t need to pay out of pocket or remember to keep receipts. You can just fill up with diesel and AdBlue in one stop, using the same card.

3. Cost control

Fuel cards often offer commercial discounts when buying AdBlue, especially when bought at the pump rather than in retail containers.

4. Better oversight

Fleet managers can set purchase permissions to prevent misuse, so you can only buy AdBlue on your fuel card when needed. 

5. Compliance and efficiency

Keeping AdBlue costs in line with fuel spend helps you track your fleet’s efficiency and makes sure your vehicles stay compliant with emissions standards.

What to keep in mind when buying AdBlue on a fuel card

While there are clear benefits of buying Adblue on a fuel card, there are also some things to be aware of:

• Limited station coverage: Not every station lets you buy AdBlue at the pump, and some only stock small containers. For HGV or fleet operators, this can mean wasted time detouring to find the right forecourt or the inconvenience of carrying bulky containers that don’t last long.

• Card configuration needed: If your fuel card isn’t set up to let you buy AdBlue, the transaction will simply be declined. That means drivers could be stranded with low AdBlue levels, or your business might face unnecessary delays. Always check your fuel cards’ purchase options to avoid disruption.

• Pump vs container limits: Some fuel cards only let you buy AdBlue at the pump, while others allow container purchases too. Relying on the wrong option could leave your drivers short, especially on long journeys where pump access is patchy. 

• Unpredictable pricing: AdBlue prices vary widely. Pump prices differ by location, and small retail containers are often far more expensive per litre. With proper planning and the right fuel card setup, you can avoid overpaying and unlock the real savings fuel cards are designed to deliver.

• Quality concerns: Buying non-standard AdBlue might look cheaper upfront, but it risks serious engine damage. Only ISO 22241-compliant AdBlue protects the SCR system. Using poor-quality fluid could lead to expensive repairs and downtime, which is far more expensive than the initial savings of your fuel card. 

• Risk of misuse: If permissions aren’t tightly controlled, your fuel card could be used for non-business items or excessive AdBlue purchases. This quickly drives up costs and makes it harder to keep track of fleet spending. Put clear limits in place to protect your budget and keep expenses transparent.

Keep AdBlue simple with the right fuel card from InterFuels

Make it easy for your drivers to buy AdBlue on a fuel card with InterFuels. One stop is all it takes to cover both diesel and AdBlue, thanks to national coverage and clear pricing. You’ll save time on admin, keep your fleet compliant, and avoid the bother of separate purchases. Compare fuel cards today and see how the right one can make managing your fuel and AdBlue simpler than ever.

Can I buy AdBlue on a fuel card FAQs

Can I fill up with AdBlue at a petrol station?

Yes, you can fill up with AdBlue at many petrol stations in the UK. Larger forecourts, motorway services, and HGV lanes often have AdBlue pumps designed for commercial vehicles, while smaller stations typically stock AdBlue containers (5L, 10L or 20L). Always check whether the pump is suitable for cars or heavy goods vehicles, as nozzle sizes can differ.

Is it cheaper to buy AdBlue at the pump?

In most cases, yes, buying AdBlue at the pump is cheaper per litre than purchasing small retail containers. Containers are more convenient for emergencies but often come with a higher price tag. Fleets and frequent drivers usually save money by using fuel cards at stations with AdBlue pumps, where prices are more competitive.

Can you drive without AdBlue?

Yes, you can drive without AdBlue, but if it runs out, your vehicle will give dashboard warnings and may go into a reduced power mode (limp mode). Once the system is empty, most vehicles will not restart until AdBlue is refilled. Keeping AdBlue topped up keeps you compliant with emissions standards and avoids breakdowns.