What to Do When You Put the Wrong Fuel in Your Car

Misfueling can happen to anyone, and knowing how to respond quickly can save you time and money. The two most common mistakes are petrol in a diesel car and diesel in a petrol vehicle. While both are inconvenient, petrol in a diesel engine is generally more dangerous and costly, but both require prompt action to prevent damage. When petrol is accidentally added to a diesel vehicle, the risks are significant. Diesel engines rely on the lubricating properties of diesel fuel to protect their fuel system components. Petrol acts as a solvent, reducing lubrication and potentially causing damage to the fuel pump, injectors, and other parts. If you start the engine, petrol can circulate through the system, increasing the risk of costly repairs. The key rule here is: never start the engine. Turn off the ignition immediately to prevent the petrol from circulating and causing further damage. In contrast, diesel in a petrol car is less immediately damaging. Petrol engines are less sensitive to small amounts of diesel, but it can still cause rough running, misfires, or damage if not addressed. The main concern is to avoid running the engine, which can lead to incomplete combustion and potential damage over time. What to do right now? First, do not start or turn off the engine if it’s already running. Contact a professional misfuel recovery service like EEK Mechanical. We dispatch a NZIFDA-certified tow truck to collect your vehicle and take it to a certified workshop for manufacturer-spec fuel system recovery. This process ensures your vehicle’s fuel system is properly cleaned and restored, avoiding costly repairs later. If you realise the mistake before starting the engine, do not attempt to drive or start the vehicle. Instead, call us immediately at 0800 769 000. Our team will arrange a tow to a certified workshop where trained technicians will perform a manufacturer-spec fuel system recovery, ensuring your vehicle is safe and reliable. Remember, misfueling is a common mistake, but prompt, professional action is essential. Never attempt roadside repairs or drain the fuel yourself. Our recovery service is available 24/7, and we handle all the logistics, including NZIFDA-certified recovery and manufacturer-specific fuel system recovery. The typical recovery cost varies depending on the situation, with an recovery is fully itemised on our rate card, including tow, labour, disposal, and fuel replacement. If you’re unsure or need assistance, don’t hesitate to call us. We’re here to help you get back on the road safely and quickly. Call 0800 769 000 now — we dispatch a tow truck 24/7 to assist you with your misfuel emergency.