Petrol in Diesel Engine: What You Need to Know Now
Mixing up fuel types can happen to anyone, but if you’ve accidentally put petrol in diesel engine Links to an external site., it’s crucial to act quickly. Misfuelling is a common mistake, and although it’s fixable, it can lead to serious engine damage if not handled correctly. In this article, we’ll explore the impact of petrol in diesel engine, how to spot the symptoms, what to do immediately, and how to prevent it from happening again.
Why Putting Petrol in Diesel Engine Is Dangerous
Diesel engines operate differently from petrol engines. Diesel fuel is thicker, providing lubrication to engine components. When you put petrol in diesel engine, the thinner petrol strips away that lubrication. This can cause metal parts to grind together, resulting in significant damage.
Even small amounts of petrol in diesel engine can be harmful. The more petrol that’s pumped into a diesel system, the more severe the potential damage. That’s why it’s essential to recognize the issue early and respond fast.
Common Symptoms of Petrol in Diesel Engine
If you’ve accidentally put petrol in diesel engine, here are some common symptoms to look out for:
- Engine misfiring or failure to start
- Excessive smoke from the exhaust
- Loud knocking noises from the engine
- Reduced performance or acceleration
- Engine warning lights on your dashboard
These signs usually appear shortly after driving away from the fuel station. If you suspect petrol in diesel engine, stop the vehicle as soon as it’s safe and avoid turning the engine on again.
What to Do Immediately After Misfuelling
- Do not start the engine – If you haven’t started the car yet, you’re in luck. Keeping the engine off prevents the petrol in diesel engine from circulating.
- Call a professional fuel drain service – Specialists like Fuel Fixer can safely drain the contaminated fuel and flush the system.
- Avoid DIY fixes – Trying to fix the issue yourself could make things worse. Misfuelling requires expertise and the right equipment.
- Inform the petrol station if needed – Some stations might have procedures in place for helping with misfuelling cases.
How Petrol Affects Diesel Fuel Systems
Diesel fuel systems are made to work under high pressure. The presence of petrol in diesel engine alters combustion and lubrication, leading to wear and tear. Petrol can cause seals to shrink, injectors to fail, and damage fuel pumps. Over time, the engine might need expensive repairs or even a full replacement.
Cost of Repair After Petrol in Diesel Engine
The cost of fixing petrol in diesel engine can vary depending on how much petrol was added and whether the engine was started. A basic fuel drain and system flush may cost a few hundred pounds. However, if the engine has been run for a while with petrol in diesel engine, you might be facing thousands in repairs for new injectors, fuel pumps, or even a replacement engine.
Prevention Tips: Avoiding Petrol in Diesel Engine
- Check the nozzle size: Petrol pump nozzles are usually smaller than diesel ones. Be aware if it feels like the nozzle fits too easily.
- Label your fuel cap: Put a “diesel only” sticker as a reminder.
- Double-check before pumping: Take a moment to verify the fuel type, especially if you’re driving a rental or unfamiliar vehicle.
- Stay focused: Avoid distractions at the pump. Most cases of petrol in diesel engine happen when drivers are distracted or rushed.
Why Fuel Fixer Is Your Go-To Solution
At Fuel Fixer, we understand the panic and stress of putting petrol in diesel engine. That’s why we offer fast, mobile fuel drain services across the UK. Our trained technicians can come to your location, drain the fuel, flush the system, and get you back on the road safely. We’ve helped thousands of drivers just like you with petrol in diesel engine issues.
Our services are available 24/7, and we’re just a call away. Don’t let a simple mistake turn into an expensive problem—Fuel Fixer has your back.
Long-Term Effects of Petrol in Diesel Engine
Even after the contaminated fuel is drained, it’s important to monitor your engine. Long-term effects of petrol in diesel engine exposure include decreased fuel efficiency, delayed starting, and rough idling. If any of these persist, have your vehicle inspected by a professional.
Regular servicing and prompt action after a misfuel can greatly reduce the risk of permanent damage.
Final Thoughts
Putting petrol in diesel engine is a mistake that can happen to anyone. The key is acting quickly and getting professional help. With the right support, most vehicles can be fully recovered without long-term issues.
If you’ve accidentally put petrol in diesel engine, don’t panic. Turn off the engine, call Fuel Fixer, and let our experts handle the rest.
Avoid costly repairs and get back on the road faster—trust Fuel Fixer when it comes to fixing petrol in diesel engine mistakes.