Misfuelling is more common than many drivers realise. Every year, thousands of people put the wrong fuel into their car. But did you know that putting petrol in a diesel car is very different from putting diesel in a petrol car? Both can cause serious issues, but the risks and effects are not the same. Let’s break down the differences.
Petrol in a Diesel Car
This is the most common type of misfuelling. Diesel engines rely on the lubricating properties of diesel fuel to protect the high-pressure fuel pump and injectors. Petrol, however, is a solvent and strips away this lubrication.
What happens when petrol goes into a diesel engine:
- Increased friction causes wear to critical components
- The injection system can fail quickly if the engine is started
- Long-term damage can occur if not fixed promptly
Symptoms you may notice:
- Difficulty starting the car
- Loud knocking noises
- Reduced performance and stalling
If this happens, do not drive the vehicle. Call a fuel recovery service immediately to drain and flush the system.
Diesel in a Petrol Car
This is less common, because diesel pump nozzles are typically larger and don’t fit easily into modern petrol filler necks. But it still happens, especially with older vehicles or smaller petrol tanks.
What happens when diesel goes into a petrol engine:
- Diesel does not ignite as easily as petrol, leading to poor combustion
- The engine may misfire, produce excessive smoke, or fail to start
- Spark plugs and fuel system components can become clogged
Symptoms you may notice:
- Rough idling or misfiring
- Thick smoke from the exhaust
- Loss of power and eventual engine shutdown
Again, the safest step is to switch off the ignition and call a professional fuel drainage service.
Which One Is Worse?
Both types of misfuelling can cause serious issues, but petrol in a diesel car is usually more damaging due to the lack of lubrication and the stress it puts on the fuel injection system. Diesel in a petrol car is also harmful, but the damage tends to be less severe if caught quickly.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’ve put petrol in a diesel car or diesel in a petrol car, the most important step is to avoid starting the engine and call a professional service right away.
🚗 Need fast assistance? Emergency Fuel Recovery provides 24/7 wrong fuel recovery services across Australia. Call us on +61 432 288 262 and get back on the road safely.