Diesel in Petrol Car

Put Diesel in a Petrol Car by Mistake and Drove It? Here's What to Do

It happens more often than you might think. Every year, thousands of UK drivers accidentally pour diesel into a petrol car. While it’s a simple oversight, the consequences can be serious—especially if you drive off before realising the mistake.

At Wrong Fuel Fixer, we’re specialists in misfuelling incidents. Whether you're stranded at a petrol station or stuck roadside after driving a short distance, our expert mobile team is ready to get you back on the road quickly and safely.

Why Diesel in a Petrol Tank Is a Big Problem

Petrol engines are designed to ignite fuel using spark plugs. Diesel, however, is heavier, oilier, and needs compression to combust. Mixing the two can lead to:

  • Engine Misfiring or Failure
  • Blocked Fuel Injectors & Spark Plugs
  • Damage to the Catalytic Converter
  • Costly Repairs If the Engine Is Started

If you’ve driven the vehicle after filling with diesel, damage can spread quickly. That’s why time is of the essence.

How Does This Happen?

Modern cars can confuse even the most seasoned drivers. Similar-looking fuel caps, switching between diesel and petrol vehicles, or simply being in a rush can lead to mistakes. While a petrol nozzle often won’t fit into a diesel car, diesel nozzles easily slide into petrol tanks—making this error all too common.

What to Do Immediately

DON’T start the car.
If you haven’t turned the ignition, you’re in luck. Here’s what you should do:

  • Stay put: Leave the engine off.
  • Let the staff know: If you’re at a fuel station, they may help you move the vehicle.
  • Call Wrong Fuel Fixer: Our mobile fuel drain team will come to your location—whether you’re at home, at a forecourt, or on the roadside—usually within the hour.

Diesel in Petrol Car

The least common misfueling type is diesel in a petrol car. It is because the nozzles of the diesel pumps are bigger than the gasoline filler necks. On the other hand, the size of the gasoline nozzles is too small to fit in the diesel tank. For this reason, people get confused, and they might need fuel assistance. That is why the wrong fuel fixer is here to assist you. If you are facing this issue, contact us; we will be there in no time.

 

If you have filled up your gasoline engine with diesel, leave your vehicle in a safe place and call us to help you.

 

You have to follow some guidelines if you have diagnosed that you have put diesel in your petrol car. Do not start the engine of your car because it will prevent the diesel from entering your vehicle’s engine and causing any damage.

 

 

How to Avoid Putting Diesel in a Petrol Car Again

  • Label your fuel cap with a “PETROL ONLY” sticker
  • Double-check the nozzle before you pump
  • Use a misfuel prevention device
  • Check your rental car’s fuel type before refueling

 

Why Choose Wrong Fuel Fixer?

Most drivers have faced the misfueling issue in their lives at some point. It has surprisingly become a common issue. There is a need to provide a complete guide to prevent drivers from putting in the incorrect fuel. Here are some ways that you can follow to prevent misfueling:

  • Nationwide coverage
  • Fast response, usually under 60 minutes
  • Affordable rates—no hidden fees
  • Trained technicians with years of experience
  • Available 24/7, even on holidays

FOR A FAST, RELIABLE RESCUE CALL WRONG FUEL FIXER NOW!