What to Do If You Accidentally Put Petrol in a Diesel Car

Putting petrol in a diesel car is a common mistake that can cause serious damage to your vehicle if not handled quickly and correctly. If you find yourself in this situation, knowing the right steps to take can save you time, money, and stress. This guide explains what happens when petrol is put in a diesel car, how to recognize the problem, and the best actions to fix it.

Misfuelled diesel car fuel tank with petrol nozzle

Why Putting Petrol in a Diesel Car Is a Problem

Diesel engines and petrol engines operate differently. Diesel fuel acts as a lubricant for the engine’s fuel system, while petrol is more volatile and designed for spark ignition engines. When petrol enters a diesel engine, it can cause:

• Damage to fuel injectors and fuel pump due to lack of lubrication

• Engine knocking and misfiring because petrol ignites differently

• Clogged fuel filters as petrol contaminates diesel residues

• Potential engine failure if the car is driven with the wrong fuel

  
  

Even a small amount of petrol in a diesel tank can cause these issues, so immediate action is crucial.

How to Recognize You’ve Put Petrol in a Diesel Car

Sometimes the mistake is obvious, but other times you might only realize after the car starts acting strangely. Signs include:

• Engine warning lights turning on

• Difficulty starting the engine or failure to start

• Rough idling or stalling

• Loss of power or hesitation when accelerating

• Strange noises from the engine

  
  

If you notice any of these symptoms shortly after refueling, suspect misfuelling and stop driving immediately.

What to Do Immediately After Putting Petrol in a Diesel Car

If you realize you have put petrol in your diesel car, follow these steps:

1. Do not start the engine or turn the ignition on. Starting the engine circulates the petrol through the fuel system, increasing damage.

2. Call for professional help. Contact a specialist service like Misfuelled Car Fix at 0800 999 1182. They have the expertise and equipment to safely drain and clean your fuel system.

3. Inform the fuel station where the mistake happened. They may offer assistance or advice.

4. Avoid driving the car until it has been checked and repaired. Driving can cause petrol to spread through the engine, leading to costly repairs.

   
   

How Professionals Fix a Misfuelled Diesel Car

When you call a service like Misfuelled Car Fix, they will typically:

• Drain the contaminated fuel tank completely

• Flush the fuel lines and replace fuel filters

• Check and clean the fuel injectors and fuel pump

• Refill the tank with the correct diesel fuel

• Test the engine to ensure it runs smoothly

  
  

This process prevents long-term damage and restores your car’s performance.

Preventing Petrol in Diesel Car Mistakes

Avoiding misfuelling is the best way to protect your vehicle. Here are some tips:

• Always check the fuel type before refilling

• Look for clear labels on the fuel cap and pump

• Use different fuel stations if you find the current one confusing

• Consider using a fuel cap lock to prevent accidental refills

• Educate all drivers who use the vehicle about the correct fuel type

  
  

What Happens If You Drive After Putting Petrol in a Diesel Car

Driving even a short distance with petrol in a diesel engine can cause:

• Severe damage to the fuel pump and injectors

• Engine overheating and knocking

• Increased repair costs, sometimes requiring engine replacement

  
  

If you have driven the car, inform the repair service about this so they can perform a thorough inspection.

Costs and Time Involved in Fixing Misfuelled Cars

The cost to fix a misfuelled diesel car varies depending on how much petrol was added and whether the engine was started or driven. Typical costs include:

• Fuel draining and flushing: £100–£300

• Fuel filter replacement: £50–£150

• Fuel pump or injector repairs: £300–£1,000 or more

  
  

The repair process usually takes a few hours to a day, but severe cases may require longer.

When to Contact Misfuelled Car Fix

If you suspect or know you have put petrol in a diesel car, call Misfuelled Car Fix immediately at 0800 999 1182. Acting fast reduces damage and repair costs. Their team offers emergency support and expert advice to get your car back on the road safely.