Filling your car with the wrong type of fuel is a mistake that many drivers dread. Whether it’s petrol in a diesel car or diesel in a petrol car, the steps you take immediately after can significantly influence the extent of damage and the cost of repair. Here’s an easy-to-follow guide to help you handle this situation efficiently and minimise potential harm to your car.
Stop Right There- Do Not Start The Engine
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Stop Right There—Do Not Start the Engine
First of all, don’t panic. It happens.
If you’ve misfuelled, the most crucial step is to not start your car. Starting the engine will circulate the incorrect fuel through the system, potentially causing more extensive damage.
Safely Move Your Car
If your car hasn’t been started yet, keep it that way. If you realise the mistake while driving, safely pull over as soon as possible and switch off the engine to prevent further circulation of the wrong fuel.
Call for Professional Help
Once your car is safely parked, contact a professional breakdown service to have your vehicle towed to a suitable location where the fuel system can be properly drained and cleaned. Attempting to do this yourself is not advisable due to the highly flammable nature of fuel vapours.
Understanding The Costs
If you haven’t started the engine, a specialist will drain your tank and flush the lines, typically costing between €200 and €400. Due to the risks, this process should always be performed by a specialist. Fuel vapour is incredibly flammable… explosive—in confined spaces, so it needs to be done by someone who knows what they’re doing.
What to Do Next
After the fuel has been drained and your system flushed, keep an eye on your car’s performance. Any unusual behaviour, like rough idling or trouble starting, should be inspected by a professional.
Prevent Future Mistakes
To avoid this scenario in the future, consider using a fuel reminder tag on your fuel cap or dashboard—a simple and effective reminder of which fuel your car requires.
The Bottom Line
Misfuelling your car doesn’t have to be a major crisis. Taking immediate action can prevent serious damage and hefty repair bills. Stay calm, don’t start the engine, and get professional assistance to address the issue safely.
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Mistakes like misfuelling happen, but they can remind us of the conveniences newer models offer, such as fuel reminder tags that prevent such errors. If this incident has you thinking about upgrading to a more user-friendly vehicle, LM Operations is here to help. We offer comprehensive car finance options that make getting into a new car straightforward and stress-free. Get your new car budget and find a car that keeps you right on track, error-free and with the latest features to enhance your driving experience.