Mistaking petrol for diesel at the pump might seem like a small error, but its consequences can be significant if not addressed promptly. Misfuelling is a surprisingly common occurrence, but understanding the effects and knowing how to fix it can prevent expensive damage to your vehicle.
This blog explores what happens when petrol in diesel car mistake vehicle and outlines steps to resolve the issue quickly to protect your engine and save time and money.
What Happens When Petrol Enters a Diesel Tank?
Diesel engines operate differently from petrol engines. Diesel fuel works as both a lubricant and a fuel source, which helps in maintaining the system’s efficiency and durability. Petrol, on the other hand, acts as a solvent and doesn’t provide the lubrication diesel engines require.
When petrol enters a diesel tank, several things occur that affect your vehicle’s performance and health:
- Reduced lubrication: Petrol reduces the lubricating properties of diesel, causing increased friction within the system. This can lead to severe damage to components like the fuel pump and injectors.
- Engine knocking: Petrol ignites differently from diesel due to its lower flash point. This can cause the engine to knock, leading to potential long-term damage.
- Clogging and contamination: Petrol and diesel have varying densities and properties. Mixing the two can lead to clogging in the fuel filter and contamination throughout the entire fuel system.
- Incomplete combustion: Using petrol in a diesel engine disrupts the combustion process, reducing the vehicle’s efficiency and emitting harmful exhaust gases.
How to Identify Misfuelling Symptoms
If you’ve accidentally added petrol to your diesel engine, it’s essential to recognize the warning signs quickly. Symptoms can include difficulty starting the engine, reduced power, strange noises, excessive exhaust smoke, or an illuminated check engine light. Avoid driving the vehicle further, as this can worsen the damage.
Steps to Fix the Issue
Once you realize petrol has been added to a diesel engine, acting promptly can minimize damage. Here’s a step-by-step guide to solving the problem effectively.
1. Stop Driving Immediately
Do not start or drive the vehicle if you realize the mistake while still at the fuel station. This prevents petrol from circulating through the fuel system and reduces potential damage. If you’ve already started the engine, stop driving as soon as it’s safe to pull over.
2. Call a Professional Service
Contact a qualified mechanic or fuel drain specialist. These professionals have the tools and expertise needed to assess the situation and safely remove contaminated fuel from your tank. They can also inspect your system for any signs of damage.
3. Drain the Fuel Tank
Fuel must be drained entirely from the tank. Professionals use specialized equipment to safely extract the petrol-diesel mixture without damaging the vehicle further.
4. Flush the System
After draining, the entire fuel system must be flushed to remove any remaining petrol residue. This includes the fuel lines, pump, and injectors. Proper flushing ensures no contaminants remain, protecting the engine from future damage.
5. Refill with Diesel
Refill the tank with the correct grade of diesel fuel. Adding a fuel system cleaner or lubricant to the mix can help restore lost lubrication and protect the components while restarting the vehicle.
