Accidentally Put Diesel In Your Petrol Car?
We Can Help!
Don't Try to Drive!
Put diesel in your petrol car? Don't panic. Don't start the engine.
Diesel won't ignite properly in petrol engines. Your car will misfire, smoke, and lose power.
Haven't started it yet? Perfect. Keep it off and call us now.
Fast Response Across Perth
Ben usually arrives in around 60 minutes, depending on whether we're on another job and how far away you are
What Happens When You Put Diesel Into A Petrol Car?
The Issue
- •Diesel doesn't ignite properly in petrol engines (needs compression ignition)
- •Engine will misfire, smoke heavily, and run very poorly
- •Can clog fuel filters and injectors
- •May damage spark plugs and catalytic converter if driven
Good News
- Generally causes less immediate damage than petrol in diesel
- Quick drainage usually prevents serious problems
- Complete fix in 30-60 minutes on average
- Often noticed before starting due to nozzle size difference
Diesel in Petrol Car Symptoms
Signs of wrong fuel in car appear quickly when you put diesel in a petrol engine. Here's what to look for at each stage:
Before Starting
- • Diesel nozzle may not fit properly in petrol filler neck
- • Strong diesel smell at fuel cap
- • Fuel gauge reading seems off
If You Start the Engine
- • Engine struggles to start or won't start
- • Excessive white or black smoke from exhaust
- • Engine runs very rough or stalls
If You Try to Drive
- • Severe loss of power
- • Engine misfires constantly
- • Check engine light illuminates
Diesel in Petrol Car, What Happens and How to Drain It
Putting diesel in a petrol car is less immediately catastrophic than the reverse, but it still requires professional drainage. Diesel is much thicker than petrol and does not ignite correctly in a spark-ignition petrol engine. The diesel coats injectors, clogs the fuel filter, and if driven, can foul spark plugs and damage the catalytic converter.
How to drain a diesel in a petrol car: Do not attempt DIY drainage. Modern vehicles have anti-siphon valves that prevent simple siphoning. Professional technicians use specialized equipment to access and fully drain the fuel system, flush all lines and components, replace the fuel filter, clean spark plugs if needed, and refill with correct petrol.
Wrong fuel diesel in petrol car cost for professional drainage is far less than the repair bills from spark plug fouling, injector clogging, or catalytic converter damage that occurs from driving with diesel contamination.
How We Fix It
Call Us
Call us as soon as you realise the mistake. Do not start or move your vehicle. We'll assess the situation over the phone and provide you with further instructions if necessary
We Come To You
Ben usually arrives in around 60 minutes, depending on whether we're on another job and how far away you are
Complete Fuel Drain
We remove the contaminated fuel and ensure there is none left in your tank
System Flush & Cleaning
We flush your system to make sure there is no incorrect fuel left that will cause future damage
Back On The Road
We'll do our final checks and get you back on the road, with no need for a new engine!
Complete Fuel System Service
Our professional fuel drainage service is designed to completely remove contaminated or incorrect fuel from your vehicle's system, preventing engine damage and getting you back on the road safely.
Using specialized equipment and techniques, we perform a thorough drainage and flush that removes every trace of the wrong fuel, ensuring your vehicle runs as it should.
Why Professional Drainage Matters
Simply siphoning out the tank isn't enough. Wrong fuel contaminates the entire system - fuel lines, filter, pump, and injectors. Our complete service addresses all of these components.
Our Drainage Process
Complete Drainage
We drain 100% of the contaminated fuel from your tank using professional equipment.
System Flush
We flush all fuel lines, pumps, and filters to remove every trace of wrong fuel.
Filter Replacement
We replace the fuel filter to ensure clean fuel flow (when necessary).
Correct Refuel
We add the correct fuel and test your vehicle to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Common Questions
Can I drive a short distance to get help?
No, we strongly advise against this. Even a short drive can cause damage. We come to you - no need to call a tow truck!
Will my car be OK after the service?
If you haven't run the engine (or only briefly), your car will be perfectly fine after we drain and flush the system. No need for a new engine.
How much does the service cost?
Our pricing is transparent and competitive. Call us for an exact quote - it's always far less expensive than potential engine repairs!
Tips to Prevent Wrong Fuel in Perth
Double-Check Before Refuelling
Always confirm the fuel type your vehicle requires by checking the owner's manual or the label inside the fuel cap before you start refuelling.
Use Visual Reminders
Place a sticker or tag near your fuel cap or dashboard indicating the correct fuel type. This is especially helpful if multiple people drive the vehicle.
Pay Full Attention at the Pump
Avoid distractions such as using your phone or engaging in conversation while refuelling. Take your time and focus on selecting the correct pump and nozzle.
Read Pump Labels Carefully
Don't rely solely on the color of hoses or nozzles. Always check the pump's trigger label and fuel grade indicator to ensure you're choosing the right fuel.
Consider a Misfuelling Prevention Device
Invest in an aftermarket fuel filler cap or adapter that only allows the correct nozzle to fit your vehicle's tank.
Inform All Drivers
Make sure anyone who drives your vehicle knows the correct fuel type and follows these precautions.
Avoid Refuelling When Rushed or Distracted
If you're in a hurry, stressed, or preoccupied, wait until you can give refuelling your full attention to minimize mistakes.
By following these simple steps, you can greatly reduce the risk of misfuelling and avoid the need for fuel rescue services.
Other Services You May Need
Petrol in Diesel Car
The more serious mistake, petrol in a diesel engine requires immediate professional attention.
Learn more →
Emergency Fuel Rescue Perth
Perth-wide 24/7 mobile wrong fuel rescue. We come to you, fast.
Learn more →
Contaminated Fuel Removal
Water, dirt, or debris in your fuel tank? We remove all contamination safely.
Learn more →
Stuck at the pump right now?
Ben picks up. Tell him where you are and which fuel went in.
Call Ben Now