Misfuelling a car is an easily made mistake, and chances are, you’re not the first person to have done it. However, acting quickly and carefully is key to preventing long-term damage to your vehicle. If you accidentally put petrol in diesel car, avoid panicking—here’s what you need to know and the steps you should take immediately.
Why Petrol in a Diesel Car Is a Problem
Diesel cars are designed with specific engine and fuel system characteristics that differ from petrol cars. Diesel fuel serves as both a lubricant and a power source for diesel engines. Petrol, on the other hand, lacks the lubricating properties of diesel and can cause increased friction, damage fuel pumps, and clog injectors. Even a small amount of petrol in a diesel tank can lead to potential harm if not addressed quickly.
It’s important to note that starting the engine after putting petrol in a diesel car significantly worsens the problem. The petrol will circulate through the fuel system, leading to further contamination and damage.
Immediate Steps to Take After Misfuelling
- Do Not Start the Engine
The most critical step after realizing you’ve misfuelled is to refrain from starting the engine. Starting the car will allow petrol to circulate through the diesel system, potentially leading to more severe damage. Keep the vehicle turned off and the key out of the ignition.
- Park the Vehicle Safely
If you’ve already started refuelling when you realize the mistake, stop pumping immediately. Move your car to a safe location—ideally a flat surface in the petrol station parking lot or nearby area. Avoid pushing the car if possible, as this can agitate the fuel in the tank.
- Alert the Petrol Station Staff
If you are at a petrol station, inform the staff. They may have protocols in place for handling misfuelling cases and can assist you in making the next steps.
- Call for Professional Assistance
Contact a qualified mechanic or vehicle recovery service that specializes in fuel drainage. Professionals have the equipment necessary to safely remove contaminated fuel from the tank and clean the system without causing further harm. Attempting to drain the fuel tank on your own could result in damage or even pose safety risks.
- Avoid Driving Until It’s Fixed
Resist the urge to “just drive it home” or to a local garage. Petrol in a diesel engine negatively affects fuel lubrication and increases the risk of costly repairs to the fuel pump, injectors, and engine components. Driving the vehicle without resolving the issue could lead to expensive replacements or potentially irreversible damage.
- Start Fresh After Fuel Drainage
Once the contaminated fuel is drained and the system is cleaned, refill the tank with high-quality diesel. A mechanic may recommend adding a fuel additive to help lubricate and clean the system further. Carefully monitor the car for any unusual sounds or performance issues after restarting.
Avoiding Misfuelling in the Future
While mistakes happen, a few preventative measures can help you avoid misfuelling in the future:
- Always double-check the nozzle and pump label before refuelling.
- Consider placing a sticker or label on the fuel tank cap to remind yourself of the correct fuel type.
- Use a fuel-filler cap attachment that prevents the petrol pump nozzle from fitting into a diesel car.
Taking immediate action after putting petrol in a diesel car can save you significant repair costs and downtime. Keep these steps in mind to resolve the situation as smoothly as possible while preventing potential damage.
