Put Petrol In A Diesel Car?
This is the more serious misfuelling mistake, because petrol removes the lubrication a diesel system needs. The most important thing is not to start the engine. Call us straight away and we'll drain and flush at the roadside.
You're not alone, and you're not stuck. In the UK, someone puts the wrong fuel in their vehicle roughly every three and a half minutes. It's one of the most common mistakes on the road, and it's exactly what we fix, every day.
Why petrol in a diesel car is more serious
In a diesel engine, diesel doesn't just power the car, it also lubricates the high-pressure fuel pump and injectors. Petrol is a solvent, so it strips away that lubrication and increases friction between the moving parts.
The longer the system runs with petrol in it, the greater the risk to the pump and injectors. That's why speed matters here more than with diesel in a petrol car. If you haven't started the engine, the situation is usually straightforward: a full drain and flush.
Even if you've driven a short distance, it can often still be put right without major repair, our technicians remove the contaminated fuel, flush the system and add fresh diesel so you can get going again.
Do not start the engine, or turn the key, as this can circulate the petrol through the system. If you've already started or driven, stop as soon as it's safe and call us straight away. The sooner the petrol is removed, the better the outcome.
Three simple steps
Stay calm. Follow these steps. You're not stuck.
Don't Start Your Engine
If you've already started it, turn it off as soon as it's safe. Don't try to drive.
Call Us Now
Ring 01256 805612. Tell us your location and what's happened. We'll be there fast.
We Fix It Roadside
We drain and flush your system on site and get you moving again where possible.
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Petrol in a diesel car: your questions
I've only put in a small amount, is that ok?
I've already driven it and it's running rough, what now?
Will I need a new fuel pump or injectors?
Do you come to me, or do I need a garage?
Wrong fuel in your vehicle? Don't wait.
Call our team any time, day or night, and we'll advise on the safest next step.
What To Do If You Put Petrol In A Diesel Car
- Haven’t Started The Vehicle
If you realise your mistake before starting your engine then ensure you don’t start your vehicle or put the key in the ignition, as this will prime the electric pump in the fuel tank and circulate the contaminated diesel. It will then be essential to carry out a full fuel drain. Once the contaminated fuel has been removed and the tank filled with the correct diesel there should be no damage to the engine.
- Started The Engine
If you have started the engine before realising the misfuelling mistake then stop the car as soon as possible. We recommend a full tank drain and a complete fuel system flush to minimise any potential damage to your vehicle’s fuel system. Once the system has been completely flushed through with the correct fuel and the tank has been filled with diesel, we recommend using a good quality fuel additive to remove any trace of the contaminated fuel.
- Driven The Vehicle