What to do if you put the wrong fuel in your car

Unfortunately, we've seen it before, more times than we'd like to think.  Unwitting diesel drivers call us in a panic, after filling their tank with Unleaded petrol.

It's fair to assume it's a common problem in Australia, and one that has occurred more often in recent years now that diesel nozzles share the same pump space with unleaded ones, and the fact that the unleaded nozzles do fit into modern diesel tanks.  Most of us are in a rush to fill our tanks and get moving, so we don't always double check the nozzle before filling up and driving away.

So, what happens if you put petrol in a diesel car?

This is the most disastrous mistake when it comes to the wrong fuel in the wrong car.  Once the petrol mixes with the diesel that's already in your tank you're creating a solvent, which will play hell with your car's fuel system immediately, and can lead to you needing a new engine, filters, fuel pump, injectors, and a whole new fuel tank.   Modern common-rail diesels are particularly susceptible to this kind of damage.

The most important thing to do is to recognise your mistake before you get back in the car.
As long as you don't turn the key, or press the start button, the damage can be kept to a minimum.  You will need to put your car in neutral, release the hand brake and push your car away from the pumps to a safe parking spot.

Now you'll need to call for professional help to drain the petrol out of your tank.  Your safest option is to call a tilt tray to bring your car straight to your mechanic, and let them do their work.  If you have driven away, you'll notice the problem pretty quickly as your engine will start making some awful noises, and if you ignore the noise and keep going you'll probably grind to a halt not far down the road.

Again here, quick action is key. Stop as soon as you can!  The sooner you stop, the more chance you'll have of being able to rectify the problem. Again, call a tilt tray and have your car taken straight to your trusted mechanic.

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