Mistakenly Added Petrol to Diesel Car? Don’t Panic, Act!

Putting petrol into a diesel car by mistake can happen to anyone, often when distracted or in a rush. But if you've made this error, it’s important not to panic. While misfueling your car can cause significant issues, immediate and correct action can help you avoid costly damage. This guide will cover the steps to take if you’ve mistakenly added petrol to a diesel car, especially if you've poured a significant quantity, like 20 litres of petrol in diesel car. By understanding the potential effects and knowing what to do, you can address the issue efficiently and get back on the road safely.

Why Petrol in a Diesel Engine Can Cause Damage

Diesel engines and petrol engines function differently and are not interchangeable. Diesel fuel acts as a lubricant for various parts of the engine, especially the fuel injectors. When petrol is added to a diesel car, the petrol lacks the lubricating qualities of diesel. As a result, the petrol can create friction, leading to significant wear and tear.

In cases where 20 litres of petrol in diesel car fuel systems were mistakenly introduced, the damage risk increases. The more petrol that circulates through the diesel engine, the greater the chance of damage to crucial components like the fuel pump and injectors. Taking swift action is crucial if you want to prevent costly repairs and long-term damage.

Steps to Take If You’ve Added Petrol to a Diesel Car

1. Do Not Start the Engine

If you realize that petrol has been added to a diesel car, avoid starting it at all costs. Starting the engine will cause the petrol to circulate throughout the system, increasing the risk of damage. Leaving the engine off will keep the petrol contained and limit its contact with the fuel pump and injectors.

2. Move the Car to a Safe Place

If you're at a petrol station, safely push the car away from the pump or to a nearby parking spot. In many cases, petrol station attendants can help with moving the car. Ensuring the car is in a safe, out-of-the-way area can allow you to contact a professional without obstructing others.

3. Estimate the Amount of Petrol Added

It’s essential to know approximately how much petrol has been added to the diesel car. If only a small quantity (less than a litre) has entered, the impact might be minimal, although you should still consult a professional. However, if you’ve added a larger amount, like 20 litres of petrol in diesel car, it’s essential to act fast to avoid serious damage.

4. Call for Professional Fuel Drain Assistance

The next step is to call a professional fuel drain service. These experts specialize in removing contaminated fuel from vehicles and refilling the tank with the correct fuel type. Many roadside assistance providers in the UK include fuel drain services in their packages. They can help ensure that petrol in a diesel car fuel systems are safely cleaned and flushed.

5. Allow for a Complete Fuel Drain and Flush

When the professional arrives, they will drain the contaminated fuel. This step is especially critical if there is a significant amount of petrol in the diesel car, such as 20 litres of petrol in diesel car systems. The mechanic will thoroughly flush the fuel system, clearing out any residual petrol to ensure the engine's components remain safe.

6. Refill with Diesel and Check for Damage

After the fuel drain, it's essential to top up your car with fresh diesel fuel. Some mechanics may recommend an additive to ensure any remaining traces of petrol are neutralized. In cases of larger petrol contamination, the mechanic may also suggest a check-up to look for any signs of damage, particularly in the injectors and fuel pump.

Possible Costs of Putting Petrol in a Diesel Car

Repair costs after petrol has been added to a diesel car can vary widely. If only a small amount was mistakenly added, and no damage occurred, the cost might be limited to the fuel drain service. However, if 20 litres of petrol in diesel car fuel systems were introduced, the costs could rise significantly, potentially including:

• Fuel Pump Repair or Replacement: Diesel fuel pumps rely on diesel’s lubricating qualities. Petrol disrupts this lubrication, leading to wear. Replacement might be necessary if severe damage occurs.

• Fuel Injector Damage: Diesel injectors operate at high pressure, and petrol's lack of lubrication can affect their function. Replacing damaged injectors can be costly but is sometimes required after extensive petrol contamination.

• Fuel Tank and Line Cleaning: Cleaning the entire fuel system may be necessary to remove all traces of petrol. This ensures that any remaining petrol does not circulate, potentially causing future issues.

  
  

Insurance Coverage for Misfueling Incidents

Many UK car insurance policies offer optional misfueling coverage. If you’ve mistakenly put petrol into a diesel car and have this coverage, you may be eligible for reimbursement of the fuel drain cost and associated repairs. It’s always a good idea to review your policy to confirm if misfueling coverage is included or if it can be added as an extra.

Tips for Preventing Misfueling in the Future

To avoid mistakenly adding petrol to a diesel car again, consider these preventive measures:

1. Label Your Fuel Cap: A small label reading “Diesel Only” near the fuel cap can serve as a useful reminder.

2. Minimize Distractions at the Pump: Staying focused when refueling can significantly reduce the risk of misfueling.

3. Use a Fuel Guard Device: Fuel guards attach to the filler neck, preventing petrol nozzles from fitting into diesel fuel tanks. This device can be a worthwhile investment for those who want extra protection.

   
   

Conclusion

Adding petrol to a diesel car is a common mistake but one that requires quick, careful action. By avoiding starting the engine and contacting a professional fuel drain service, you can often limit the damage. If you’ve accidentally added 20 litres of petrol in diesel car systems, be sure to follow the proper steps to prevent serious damage. Acting quickly and making use of professional services will save you time, money, and the hassle of extensive repairs.