Forum Discussion

wrenchbender's avatar
wrenchbender
Explorer
Jan 01, 2015

DEF CONSUMPTION

This is a general question to anyone with a Duramax that requires DEF.How far in normal driving will the 5 gal of DEF last before the warning light appears?. Also Where are you purchasing the DEF?. I am contemplating a new Duramax and getting horror stories from a few GM owners.

37 Replies

  • If going on a long trip, I keep a blue DEF Walmart box in the bed of my truck as a spare. I've used it a couple of times while on the road when my warning light goes off. As stated, easy to buy, store and pour.
  • ~1000 mile per gal of DEF is also about my experience. It's a nonissue. I've bought at truckstop (easiest and cheapest) as well as paid ~$5 per gal at auto store when warning came on. In general I think about adding every few months, or just before a long trip, but it hasn't been a big deal if I've forgotten as you get a warning at somewhere less than 1000mi distance remaining.
  • You will use so little of it it kinda makes little difference what it cost .
    With 11,000 miles I have spent less that 37 dollars . As far as age goes , if you have to worry about that , then maybe you ain't using your truck enough . Least months that I have seen on my purchase was thirteen months .
    It ain't difficult to pour it in your self , we got no vending truck stop closer that 42 miles .
  • It depends on how hard the truck works. It uses more the higher the exhausts gas temp.

    Cheapest and most fresh DEF will be by Truck pumps at Truck stops.
  • You'd get better responses in the Tow Vehicle section. Maybe the mods can move it.
  • 1000 mi to the gal is average, buy it anywhere close that has it such as Napa auto, Walmart etc.