Water in Fuel Tank
Professional Water Removal & Fuel System Recovery — NZIFDA Certified
Call Now: 0800 769 00024/7 Emergency Service Nationwide
How Does Water Get in Your Fuel Tank?
Water contamination is more common than most people realise. It can happen gradually or all at once, and even a small amount can cause serious problems — especially in diesel vehicles.
Condensation
Temperature changes cause moisture to form inside a partially empty tank. Common in vehicles that sit for long periods or in humid climates.
Bad Fuel from Station
Underground storage tanks at fuel stations can develop leaks or condensation, contaminating the fuel supply at the source.
Loose or Damaged Fuel Cap
A missing or cracked fuel cap allows rain and car wash water to enter the filler neck and seep into the tank.
Vandalism or Sabotage
Unfortunately, deliberate water addition does happen. If you suspect tampering, document everything and contact police.
What Happens When Water Is in Your Fuel?
Water doesn't mix with fuel — it sinks to the bottom of the tank and gets drawn into the fuel system in slugs. In diesel engines, water causes micro-explosions in injectors that erode precision components. In petrol engines, it causes misfires and stalling as it interrupts combustion.
Signs & Symptoms:
- ⚠Sputtering & Hesitation — Engine stumbles as water slugs hit the combustion chamber
- ⚠Stalling — Engine cuts out, especially under load or acceleration
- ⚠Hard Starting — Takes multiple cranks to fire, or won't start at all
- ⚠Loss of Power — Noticeable drop in performance, especially uphill
- ⚠Rust & Corrosion — Long-term water exposure corrodes tank, lines, and injectors from the inside
Diesel Vehicles Are Especially Vulnerable
Modern common-rail diesel injectors operate at pressures up to 2,000+ bar. Water in the fuel causes micro-cavitation and erosion that destroys these precision components — repairs can run $3,000–$10,000+.
Our Process
All water-contaminated fuel removed from the tank
We test and verify all water has been eliminated
Clean, uncontaminated fuel added
Fast response across New Zealand
Professional, insured technicians
We check for corrosion and advise on further action
What To Do Right Now
- 1Stop driving if you notice symptoms
Sputtering, stalling, or rough running are all red flags
- 2Don't keep trying to start it
Each attempt pushes more water through the fuel system
- 3Think about the source
Did you recently fill up? Has the car been sitting? Any signs of tampering?
- 4Call Eek: 0800 769 000
We'll drain the tank and get your vehicle running clean
Don't Wait — Water Causes Corrosion Fast
The longer water sits in your fuel system, the more damage it does. Get it drained now.
0800 769 000