Misfuelling — putting petrol in a diesel, or diesel in a petrol — happens to thousands of drivers a year, often at a busy forecourt on autopilot. The good news: handled correctly, it’s usually just an inconvenience. Handled wrongly, it’s a very expensive repair.
The single most important thing
Do not start the engine. If you’ve realised before turning the key, leave it off. If the engine is already running, stop and switch off as soon as it’s safe. The moment the wrong fuel is pumped through the system is when the real damage happens — especially petrol in a modern diesel.
Why it matters
Diesel acts as a lubricant for a diesel fuel system; petrol strips that lubrication and can wreck the pump and injectors. The further it circulates, the bigger the bill. Keeping the engine off keeps the problem contained to a simple fuel drain.
What to do next
- Don’t start it. Pop it into neutral and push it clear of the pump if it’s safe to.
- Get the vehicle recovered so the tank can be drained and flushed properly — don’t drive it.
Misfuelled and need it recovered? Call 07301 118118 — 24/7, anywhere in the UK. Don”t start the engine — just call.