Yes. Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) in cold weather can freeze. This is normal. Most modern off-road machines are built to handle frozen DEF, so the key is knowing what to expect and what to check if something goes wrong in winter.
This guide explains when DEF freezes, what your machine does about it, and how to avoid downtime.
When Does DEF Freeze?
DEF starts to freeze at about 12°F (-11°C).
DEF is made of:
- 67.5% deionized water
- 32.5% urea
That exact mix is why it freezes at that temperature. When it gets cold enough, DEF often turns into a slush first, then freezes solid.
When DEF freezes, it expands by about 7%. That means frozen DEF takes up more space than liquid DEF.
Good news: DEF tanks are designed for this. Manufacturers expect DEF to freeze, so tanks are built with room or flexible space to help prevent damage from expansion.
What Happens When DEF Freezes in Your Machine?
In most cases, your machine can still start and run even if the DEF is frozen.
- The engine can start without liquid DEF.
- The SCR system (the emissions system that uses DEF) usually waits until DEF is liquid and warm enough.
After startup, the machine uses a heating system to thaw DEF. Many machines have:
- a DEF tank heater
- heated DEF lines
- a heated pump
These heaters use engine coolant heat or electric heaters to melt the DEF safely. The machine will start injecting DEF only after it thaws and reaches the right temperature.
Sometimes you may get a warning or reduced power if DEF does not thaw in time. The computer (ECU) must meet emissions rules, so if the DEF stays frozen too long (because heating is slow or broken), it may:
- turn on warning lights
- reduce engine power (“limp mode” or “derate”)
Clear Statement: The problem isn’t that DEF freezes; the problem is when your machine’s heating system fails to thaw it.
3 Symptoms of a Faulty DEF Heating System
1. A Persistent DEF Warning Light
A DEF warning that stays on long after warm-up is a common sign. If the light turns on in cold weather and doesn’t clear after 20–30 minutes of running, DEF may not be thawing (or the system may not be detecting it correctly).
2. The Machine Stays in Limp Mode
If power stays reduced for a long time, the SCR system may still be offline because DEF is frozen or the heater isn’t working. The machine reduces power to protect itself and meet emissions requirements.
3. Repeated Clogging of Injectors or Lines
If you keep getting winter blockages, a weak or failed heater can be the cause. When DEF thaws unevenly or repeatedly half-freezes, it can leave urea crystals that build up in:
- the injector
- filters
- lines
5 Tips to Prevent DEF-Related Winter Problems
1. Do Not Add Anti-Gelling Additives
Do not put diesel additives or any chemicals into the DEF tank. DEF must stay at the correct 32.5% urea mix (ISO 22241 standard). If you add anything, you can contaminate DEF and damage SCR parts like:
- the injector
- the pump
- the catalyst
Repairs can be very expensive.
2. Avoid Overfilling the DEF Tank
Do not fill the DEF tank to the very top in freezing weather. Leave space for expansion.
A simple habit:
- fill until the nozzle clicks off, or
- fill only to the bottom of the filler neck
That air space helps prevent stress on the tank when DEF expands during freezing.
3. Use High-Quality, Properly Stored DEF
Use fresh DEF from a sealed container.
Store DEF where it stays roughly between 20°F and 80°F (-6°C to 26°C) when possible. Avoid long exposure to heat swings and direct sunlight.
Do not use DEF if it:
- Looks cloudy (when it should be clear)
- has crystals in it before freezing conditions
- came from an open/unsealed container
4. Allow the Machine to Complete Its Shutdown Cycle
Shut the machine down the right way. Many machines do a short purge cycle when you turn them off. This pulls DEF back from the lines into the tank.
That matters because DEF left in thin lines or at the injector tip can freeze faster and cause problems.
Try not to turn off the power suddenly or interrupt the shutdown unless it’s an emergency.
5. Inspect Your DEF Heating System Before Winter
Before the first deep freeze, check that the DEF heating system is working:
- heater
- sensors
- wiring/connectors
- fuses/relays (if applicable)
A failed heater is one of the most common reasons for winter DEF fault codes and long derates.
Keep Your Operations Running Smoothly This Winter
DEF freezing is normal, and most off-road machines are designed to handle it. What causes real downtime is usually a heater, pump, sensor, or line problem that stops DEF from thawing and flowing when the SCR system needs it.
If you follow the basics—don’t contaminate DEF, don’t overfill, store it correctly, let shutdown purge finish, and test the heaters before winter—you’ll avoid most cold-weather DEF issues. Any questions, feel free to contact FridayParts.
