What to Do When You Accidentally Put Petrol in a Diesel Car and Need Immediate Help
- Richard B
- Jan 18
- 3 min read
Putting petrol in a diesel car is a common mistake that can cause serious damage to your vehicle. If this happens to you, it’s crucial to act quickly to prevent costly repairs and get back on the road safely. This guide explains what steps to take immediately after the mix-up and how professional help from Wrong Fuel Emergency can rescue your car anywhere in England, including Ipswich, Cambridge, Colchester, Chelmsford, Birmingham, London, Kettering and many more.
Why Putting Petrol in a Diesel Car Is a Serious Problem
Diesel engines and petrol engines work differently. Diesel fuel lubricates the engine’s fuel system, while petrol acts as a solvent and can damage diesel engine components. When petrol enters a diesel engine, it can:
Damage fuel injectors and fuel pump due to lack of lubrication
Cause engine knocking and misfiring
Lead to clogged fuel filters and injectors
Result in costly repairs or even engine replacement if not addressed quickly
The severity depends on how much petrol was added and whether the engine was started after the mistake.
Immediate Steps to Take After Putting Petrol in a Diesel Car
If you realize you have put petrol in your diesel car, follow these steps right away:
1. Do Not Start the Engine
Starting the engine circulates the petrol through the fuel system, increasing the risk of damage. If you have not started the car yet, do not turn the ignition on.
2. Turn Off the Engine If It’s Running
If you started the car by accident, switch off the engine immediately. The less the petrol circulates, the better.
3. Call a Professional Rescue Service
Contact Wrong Fuel Emergency at 07771 029122 for 24/7 nationwide assistance. Our expert team can quickly drain the wrong fuel and prevent further damage. We cover all areas around Ipswich, Cambridge, Colchester, Chelmsford, Birmingham, London, and Kettering.
4. Do Not Attempt to Drive the Car
Driving with petrol in a diesel engine can cause severe damage. Wait for professional help to arrive and handle the situation safely.
How Wrong Fuel Emergency Can Help You
Wrong Fuel Emergency specialises in rescuing vehicles that have been filled with the wrong fuel. Their service includes:
Rapid response anywhere in England, day or night
Safe draining of petrol from diesel fuel tanks
Cleaning and flushing the fuel system to remove contaminants
Checking for damage and advising on next steps
Providing peace of mind with experienced technicians
Our quick action can save you from expensive repairs and get your car back on the road faster.
What Happens During the Rescue Process
When Wrong Fuel Emergency arrives, they follow a clear process:
Assess the situation and confirm the wrong fuel type
Use specialised equipment to drain the contaminated fuel safely
Flush the fuel system to remove petrol residues
Replace fuel filters if necessary
Test the engine to ensure it runs smoothly before you drive away
This thorough approach protects your engine and fuel system from lasting damage.
Preventing Wrong Fuel Mistakes in the Future
Avoiding this costly error is better than fixing it. Here are some tips to prevent putting petrol in a diesel car:
Always double-check the fuel pump label before filling
Use a fuel cap with a clear diesel label
Avoid distractions at the pump
If you rent or borrow a car, confirm the fuel type beforehand
Educate all drivers who use your vehicle about the correct fuel
Taking these precautions can save you time, money, and stress.
What to Expect After the Rescue
After Wrong Fuel Emergency has drained and cleaned your fuel system, your car should run normally. However, if you started the engine and drove the vehicle, some damage might have occurred. Watch for signs like:
Engine knocking or rough running
Warning lights on the dashboard
Difficulty starting the engine
If you notice any of these, visit a mechanic for a full inspection.
Areas Covered by Wrong Fuel Emergency
Wrong Fuel Emergency offers 24/7 nationwide service across England, including:
Ipswich
Cambridge
Colchester
Chelmsford
Birmingham
London
Kettering
Telford
Northampton
Norwich
Thetford
Southend-on-Sea
No matter where you are, their team can reach you quickly to provide expert help.
Why Choose Wrong Fuel Emergency
Choosing the right rescue service matters. Wrong Fuel Emergency stands out because:
We specialise exclusively in wrong fuel situations
Our technicians have extensive experience with diesel and petrol engines
We offer fast response times, day or night
Our service is available nationwide, covering major cities and towns
We provide clear advice and support throughout the process
This expertise ensures your car gets the best care when you need it most.
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