Putting the wrong fuel in your car is a mistake that can lead to serious consequences if not handled quickly. Whether you’ve added petrol to a diesel tank or diesel to a petrol car, the amount of damage depends on how much was added, whether the engine was started, and how quickly the problem is fixed.
Petrol in a Diesel Engine
Diesel acts as both a fuel and a lubricant. Petrol, on the other hand, is a solvent. When petrol is introduced into a diesel system, it strips away the lubrication that diesel provides.
Possible damage:
- Rapid wear to the fuel pump and injectors
- Metal-on-metal contact inside the system
- Potential engine seizure if driven for too long
Signs of trouble:
- Loud knocking or rattling sounds
- Stalling or poor acceleration
- Engine warning lights turning on
If not corrected immediately, repair costs can climb into the thousands.
Diesel in a Petrol Engine
Petrol engines rely on spark plugs for ignition, while diesel is heavier and doesn’t ignite as easily. This mismatch leads to poor combustion and blockages.
Possible damage:
- Spark plugs fouled and clogged
- Fuel filter and injectors blocked with diesel residue
- Excessive smoke and eventual breakdown
Signs of trouble:
- Misfiring or difficulty starting
- Rough running and loss of power
- Thick smoke from the exhaust
The damage here is usually less severe than petrol in a diesel car, but still requires urgent attention.
What Factors Affect the Level of Damage?
- Amount of wrong fuel added: A small quantity may cause less harm, but still needs draining.
- Whether the car was started: Running the engine circulates the wrong fuel, increasing risks.
- How quickly action is taken: The sooner the tank is drained and refilled, the lower the chance of permanent damage.
Final Thoughts
Wrong fuel can cause anything from mild inconvenience to major engine failure. The key is quick action: stop the engine, avoid driving, and call a professional fuel recovery service right away.
🚗 Need urgent help? Emergency Fuel Recovery is available 24/7 across Australia. Call us on +61 432 288 262 and our expert team will get you safely back on the road.