Have you ever found yourself in a fuel fiasco where you accidentally filled your diesel car with petrol? If yes, then you know how frustrating it can be. This mistake can happen to anyone, and it’s essential to know how to handle the situation promptly. In this article, we will discuss what to do when you pump petrol into a diesel engine and how to salvage your ride.
What Happens When You Put Petrol In Diesel Engine?
Before we dive into how to handle the situation, let’s first understand what happens when you put petrol in a diesel engine. Diesel engines work differently from petrol engines, and the fuel requirements are not the same. Petrol is more volatile than diesel, and it can cause damage to a diesel engine. When you put petrol in a diesel engine, the two fuels mix, and the properties of diesel change. Petrol reduces the lubrication properties of diesel, which can cause damage to the engine’s fuel system. If you start the engine, it can cause a lot of damage to the fuel system, and the repair costs can be high.
What To Do When You Put Petrol In A Diesel Engine?
If you realize that you have put petrol in a diesel engine, don’t panic. The first thing to do is to not start the engine. Starting the engine will cause the petrol to circulate through the fuel system, which can cause significant damage. Here are the steps to follow:
- Don’t start the engine: This is the most crucial step. If you haven’t started the engine, don’t try to start it. If you have, turn it off immediately.
- Push the car to a safe place: If you’re at a petrol station, ask for help to push the car to a safe place. If you’re on the road, call for assistance or push the car to a safe spot.
- Drain the fuel system: Once you’re in a safe place, you need to drain the fuel system. This involves removing the contaminated fuel from the tank and the fuel lines. You can do this by calling a professional mechanic to do it for you.
- Refill with diesel: Once the fuel system is empty, refill it with diesel only. Make sure to use the correct grade of diesel recommended by the manufacturer.
- Replace the fuel filter: Petrol can cause damage to the fuel filter, so it’s essential to replace it after draining the fuel system.
- Start the engine: Once the fuel system is drained and refilled with diesel, start the engine. If the engine doesn’t start, don’t try to force it. Call for assistance to avoid further damage.
Can You Drive A Car After Pumping Petrol Into A Diesel Engine?
No, you cannot drive a car after pumping petrol into a diesel engine. Petrol can cause significant damage to a diesel engine, so it’s crucial to avoid starting or driving the car after the mistake. If you do, it can cause further damage to the engine and may require expensive repairs.
How Much Does It Cost To Fix A Petrol In Diesel Mistake?
The cost of fixing a petrol in the diesel mistake depends on the extent of the damage caused. If you catch the mistake early and don’t start the engine, the repair costs can be minimal. However, if you start the engine and drive the car, the damage can be significant, and the repair costs can be high. On average, the repair costs can range from $500 to $10,000, depending on the extent of the damage.
How To Prevent Petrol In Diesel Mistake?
Preventing a petrol in diesel mistake is easy. Here are some tips to help you avoid making this mistake:
- Read the label: Always read the fuel type label before filling up. Diesel pumps are typically labeled in green, while petrol pumps are labeled in other colors.
- Check the nozzle: Diesel nozzles are typically larger than petrol nozzles. Make sure to check the nozzle size before filling up.
- Be mindful: Pay attention to what you’re doing when filling up. Don’t be distracted, and don’t rush.
Conclusion
A fuel fiasco can be a stressful and costly mistake, but if you follow the steps outlined in this article, you can salvage your diesel ride. Remember to never start the engine, drain the fuel system, refill with diesel, replace the fuel filter, and seek professional help if needed. Prevention is always better than cure, so be mindful when filling up and always check the fuel type label and nozzle size.
FAQs:
- What should you do if you accidentally put petrol in a diesel engine?
Don’t start the engine, push the car to a safe place, drain the fuel system, refill with diesel, and replace the fuel filter.
- Can you drive a car after putting petrol into a diesel engine?
No, you cannot drive a car after putting petrol into a diesel engine.
- How much does it cost to fix a petrol in diesel mistake?
The repair costs can range from $500 to $10,000, depending on the extent of the damage.
- How to prevent petrol in diesel mistake?
Read the label, check the nozzle, and be mindful.
- What happens when you put petrol in a diesel engine?
Petrol reduces the lubrication properties of diesel, which can cause damage to the engine’s fuel system.