What to Do If You Put Petrol in a Diesel Car in Cambridgeshire

Putting petrol in a diesel car is a mistake that happens more often than you might think. If you find yourself in this situation in Cambridgeshire, it can be stressful and confusing. Knowing the right steps to take can save you from costly repairs and get you back on the road quickly. This guide explains what happens when petrol goes into a diesel engine, how to handle the situation, and where to find help in Cambridgeshire.

Diesel fuel pump at a Cambridgeshire petrol station

Why Putting Petrol in a Diesel Car Is a Problem

Diesel and petrol engines work differently. Diesel engines rely on compression to ignite the fuel, while petrol engines use spark plugs. Diesel fuel lubricates the engine’s fuel system, but petrol acts as a solvent and can damage these parts.

When petrol enters a diesel engine, it can cause:

• Damage to fuel injectors and fuel pump because petrol does not lubricate these components.

• Engine knocking or misfiring due to improper combustion.

• Clogged fuel filters as petrol can cause deposits.

• Potential engine failure if the car is driven with the wrong fuel.

  
  

The severity depends on how much petrol was added and whether the engine was started.

Immediate Steps to Take If You Put Petrol in Your Diesel Car

If you realize you have put petrol in your diesel car, act quickly to minimize damage.

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, do not turn the ignition on.

Stop Refuelling Immediately

If you notice the mistake while still at the pump, stop filling the tank. The less petrol in the tank, the easier it is to fix.

Call for Professional Help

In Cambridgeshire, you can contact local breakdown services or garages that specialize in fuel system issues. They can drain the tank and flush the fuel system safely.

Inform Your Insurance Provider

Some insurance policies cover misfuelling incidents. Check your policy and inform your provider if necessary.

What Professionals Will Do to Fix the Problem

When you take your car to a garage or call a recovery service, they will typically:

• Drain the fuel tank completely to remove all petrol.

• Flush the fuel lines and replace fuel filters to clear any petrol residue.

• Inspect the fuel pump and injectors for damage.

• Refill the tank with diesel and test the engine.

  
  

In some cases, parts like the fuel pump or injectors may need replacement if damaged.

How Much Does It Cost to Fix Petrol in a Diesel Car?

The cost varies depending on the amount of petrol added and whether the engine was started. Typical costs in Cambridgeshire range from:

• £100 to £300 for draining and flushing the system.

• £300 to £1,000 or more if fuel pump or injectors need replacement.

  
  

Getting help early reduces the risk of expensive repairs.

Preventing Petrol in a Diesel Car Mistake

Avoiding this problem is better than fixing it. Here are some tips:

• Always check the fuel type before refuelling. Look for the diesel label on the pump.

• Use diesel-only petrol stations if possible. Some stations in Cambridgeshire clearly separate fuel types.

• Keep a reminder sticker near your fuel cap.

• If you rent or borrow a car, double-check the fuel type.

  
  

Where to Get Help in Cambridgeshire

If you need assistance, here are some options:

• Local garages with diesel engine expertise in Cambridge, Peterborough, and surrounding areas.

• Breakdown services like the AA or RAC that offer misfuelling recovery.

• Mobile mechanics who can come to your location and drain the tank.

  
  

Having contact details for these services saved on your phone can save time in an emergency.

What to Do If You Started the Engine

If you started the engine after putting petrol in your diesel car, the risk of damage increases. In this case:

• Turn off the engine as soon as you notice something wrong.

• Avoid driving the car.

• Call a professional recovery service immediately.

• Do not attempt to fix the problem yourself.

  
  

Driving the car can cause petrol to circulate through the fuel system, leading to costly repairs.

Signs Petrol Is in Your Diesel Car

Sometimes you may not realize the mistake immediately. Watch for these signs:

• Engine warning lights on the dashboard.

• Rough idling or engine misfires.

• Difficulty starting the engine.

• Loss of power or unusual noises.

• Smoke from the exhaust.

  
  

If you notice any of these symptoms after refuelling, stop driving and get your car checked.

Summary