Petrol in a Diesel Car
Putting petrol in a diesel engine is the most common misfuelling mistake. Diesel and petrol pump nozzles are different sizes for exactly this reason, but it still happens easily under stress or on autopilot. Petrol acts as a solvent in a diesel system, which relies on the fuel itself for lubrication, so the longer it's left, the more damage it can cause to the injection pump and injectors.
Signs to look out for
- Engine runs rough, knocks, or won't start at all
- Excessive smoke from the exhaust
- Loss of power or the engine cutting out while driving
- Warning lights on the dashboard
What we do
- Safely drain the contaminated fuel from the tank
- Flush the fuel lines and filter
- Refill with the correct diesel
- Run a start check before we leave
Important: if you haven't started the engine, leave it off and call us. The risk of damage is low. If you have started it or driven the car, turn the engine off as soon as it's safe and get in touch; a more thorough flush will be needed.
Call Now: 07935 361754Request a Callback
Tell us what's happened and we'll call you back within minutes.
Urgent? Call 07935 361754
Got it, we're on it
We will call you back shortly. If it's urgent, call us directly on 07935 361754.