Misfuelling or accidentally putting petrol in a diesel car or vice versa is one of the most common roadside mistakes in Australia. Thousands of drivers experience it every year, and the aftermath can be costly.
The good news? It’s entirely preventable with a few smart habits. Here are seven expert-backed tips to ensure you never make this mistake again.
1. Slow Down and Double-Check Before Pumping
Most misfuelling incidents happen when drivers are in a rush or distracted. Always pause for a few seconds before grabbing the nozzle. Check:
- The pump colour (green for petrol, black for diesel (though not always consistent)
The fuel grade label - Your dashboard or inside the fuel flap (it’s usually printed there)
Those extra seconds could save you a $1,000+ repair bill.
2. Label Your Fuel Cap Clearly
If you drive more than one type of vehicle or often borrow or rent, label your fuel cap. Stickers like “Diesel Only” or “Unleaded Only” are cheap and highly effective reminders.
Even professional drivers use these small cues to avoid mistakes when switching vehicles frequently.
3. Avoid Distractions at the Pump
Phone calls, texts, or even chatting with passengers while refuelling increases the risk of grabbing the wrong nozzle. Treat refuelling as a focused task, just 2 minutes of attention can prevent hours of stress later.
4. Know Your Car’s Fuel Type
It may sound simple, but confusion happens often when families share multiple cars. Make it a habit to check the fuel gauge or car manual before driving. If you recently switched vehicles, take note of the correct fuel type right away.
5. Choose the Right Station Setup
Some smaller service stations have less clear signage. Whenever possible, go to larger, well-marked stations with separate petrol and diesel bays. The better the layout, the lower your chance of error.
6. Don’t Rely on Colour Alone
Petrol and diesel handles are not universally colour-coded in Australia. Always read the label, never assume green is petrol or black is diesel. Some brands swap colours entirely!
7. Stay Calm If You Misfuel and Call the Experts
If the mistake happens despite precautions, don’t start the engine. Call a wrong fuel rescue or mobile fuel drain service immediately. They can safely remove the contaminated fuel before it circulates through your system.
Prevention is the best form of protection and awareness is key. By developing these habits, you’ll keep your car safe and avoid the costly consequences of misfuelling.