Putting the wrong fuel in your car can sometimes be an overwhelming burden, especially when considering the associated costs. The cost of misfuelling varies depending on the type of mistake made, the fuel used, and the total amount of fuel needed to refill your vehicle properly.
While misfuelling can be a common mistake, it is important to be aware of the preventative methods and steps to take if misfuelling does occur.
Signs and Symptoms of Misfuelling
It is important for drivers to be aware of typical signs and symptoms associated with misfuelling. Common signs are a higher level of fuel in the engine, a warning light is illuminated, or there is a decrease in the car’s performance.
Insurance Coverage
The first question to ask is whether or not your car insurance covers the cost of misfuelling. This will depend on the type of policy you have taken out, so you should check your policy documents for details. If you have comprehensive coverage, it is quite likely that you will be able to make a claim for the repair costs.
However, if you have a third-party policy, it is unlikely that you will be able to make a claim. Additionally, if you have an older car, many policies will not provide coverage as they can deem damage caused by misfuelling as a pre-existing problem.
Preventative Measures
It is best to take the necessary preventative measures to safeguard your car from putting in the wrong fuel. Pay close attention to what type of fuel is selected by glancing at the pump, and double-check the fuel cap before getting back in the car.
When in doubt, get a second opinion. Have a friend or family member help double-check your fuel selection. Finally, if you are ever unsure, always seek help and clarification from the petrol station clerk.
How to Handle the Cost
It is important to note that the costs associated with misfuelling can vary greatly depending on the situation. The total cost of getting a misfuelled car fixed ranges from a few hundred to thousands of dollars.
Most vehicle insurance policies do not cover the cost of misfuelling, so it’s essential to assess the type of damage done and take the necessary steps to ensure that all repairs are made correctly.
The first step is determining the type of misfuelling. If diesel fuel was put in a petrol engine, very little damage will most likely occur. This can be an easy fix and cheaper for the owner in comparison to filling a petrol engine with diesel fuel.
If the wrong fuel type was placed in the wrong engine, it will more than likely require more serious repair, such as draining the fuel tank and replacing the fuel filter. However, this can still be relatively inexpensive.
Do-it-Yourself vs Professional Repairs
If you consider yourself to be mechanically inclined, you may be able to fix some of the damage yourself. Doing the repairs yourself can save you a great deal of money.
However, you should be aware of what you are capable of and know to seek professional help when necessary. If the repairs seem too complex or expensive to do yourself, it is best to have a professional mechanic assess and repair the damage.
Conclusion
Misfuelling can be a worrying experience for drivers. However, following the measures above can ensure that your car is not only refuelled properly but that you save time and money in the process. When in doubt, get help from a petrol station attendant and always double-check that your vehicle is getting the appropriate fuel.
If you made the mistake of putting the wrong fuel in your car, it’s best to call the experts at Fuel Fixer. We provide 24/7 wrong fuel cleanup services and can help you get your vehicle back on the road quickly and safely. With our help, you’ll never have to worry about the consequences of misfuelling again. Contact us today for wrong fuel assistance.