Picture this: You’re at the pump, filling up, when you realise you’ve grabbed the wrong nozzle. Diesel has just gone into your petrol tank. Unlike putting petrol in a diesel car, the nozzle size usually prevents the mistake, but it still happens, especially with older pumps or different vehicle types.
What now? Should you start the car? Will it even run? Let’s break it down.
Misfuel Explained: What Diesel Does in a Petrol Engine
Petrol engines are designed for fuel that ignites quickly with a spark from the spark plugs. Diesel, on the other hand, is a heavier fuel that requires compression to ignite. Mixing the two causes problems right away:
- Hard starting or no start at all – Diesel is too heavy for petrol spark plugs to ignite effectively.
- Engine misfiring and smoke – If some diesel reaches the engine, it can cause uneven combustion, misfiring, and excessive exhaust smoke.
- Clogged fuel system – Diesel can gum up fuel injectors, filters, and spark plugs, leading to performance issues.
- Risk of breakdown – Even if the car runs for a short distance, it may stall or shut down completely.
Unlike petrol in a diesel engine (which damages lubrication), diesel in a petrol engine is more about clogging, misfiring, and poor performance. Still, it’s dangerous to ignore.
What to Do If You Put Diesel in a Petrol Car
If you’ve misfuelled, time is critical. Here’s what you should do:
- Do not start the engine. This prevents diesel from circulating into the fuel system.
- Push your car to a safe spot. If you’re at a busy petrol station, get help to move it out of the way.
- Call a professional fuel recovery service in Sydney. This is where Emergency Fuel Recovery comes in. We’ll drain, flush, and clean your system safely.
- Wait for assistance. Trying to drive off “just a little” can turn a small problem into an expensive one.
Why Call Emergency Fuel Recovery in Sydney?
- 24/7 availability – Misfuelling doesn’t keep business hours, and neither do we. Whether it’s early morning or late at night, we’re always ready to help.
- Rapid response – We know the stress of being stuck at a station, so we arrive quickly.
- Experienced team – Our technicians specialise in wrong-fuel recovery, ensuring no extra damage is done.
- On-site service – We come to you, whether you’re in the city or suburbs.
- Affordable solution – Cheaper than an engine rebuild and safer than DIY attempts.
FAQs About Diesel in Petrol Cars
1. What if I already started the car?
If you’ve turned the ignition, stop immediately and switch it off. The longer it runs, the deeper diesel travels into your system.
2. Can I fix this myself?
No, modern petrol engines are sensitive. DIY draining risks safety and further damage. Always call a professional.
3. How long does the recovery take?
Most fuel drains take about an hour, depending on the vehicle and amount of diesel.
4. Will my car be permanently damaged?
Not if you act quickly. Many cars are back to normal once the wrong fuel is drained and the system flushed.
Putting diesel in a petrol car can feel like the end of the world when it happens. Many Sydney drivers have called us in a panic, thinking their engine was ruined forever. In reality, with the right response and professional help, most cars are back on the road the very same day with no lasting damage.
For example, one of our recent customers accidentally filled nearly half a tank of diesel into their small petrol hatchback. They didn’t start the car, gave us a call straight away, and within an hour we had drained, flushed, and safely refuelled their vehicle. They drove off with nothing more than a funny story to tell their mates and a newfound habit of triple-checking the pump nozzle.
The truth is, mistakes happen. What matters is how quickly and effectively you deal with them. That’s where Wrong Fuel Recovery & Mobile Mechanic stands out. With 24/7 availability, rapid response times, and an expert team, we make sure a misfuel doesn’t turn into a costly disaster.
So next time you or someone you know puts the wrong fuel in their car, remember that it’s not the end of the road. It’s just a quick call to a team who knows exactly how to help.
Call us today at 0422 987 222 and get back on the road fast with Wrong Fuel Recovery & Mobile Mechanic!