Putting the wrong fuel in your vehicle can be a frustrating and potentially costly mistake. Misfueling can cause engine damage, decrease fuel efficiency and even lead to breakdowns. In this blog post, we will address common questions about misfuelling, how to avoid it, and what to do if you find yourself in this situation.
What is Misfueling?
Misfueling occurs when you put the wrong type of fuel in your vehicle. It can happen when you accidentally fill up with diesel instead of petrol or vice versa. In some cases, people mistakenly use biofuels, such as ethanol, instead of petrol or diesel. Misfueling can cause serious damage to your engine, and it can be a costly mistake to fix.
What Should I Do If I Misfuel?
If you put the wrong fuel in your vehicle, don’t panic. It’s important to act quickly to minimize the damage. The first step is to stop driving your vehicle immediately. If you continue to drive, you risk further damage to your engine. Next, call a professional fuel drainage service to remove the contaminated fuel. They will drain the fuel tank, flush the fuel system, and refill it with the correct fuel. It’s important to note that attempting to fix the problem yourself could cause more damage to your engine, which could be more expensive to repair.
How Can I Avoid Misfueling?
The best way to avoid misfuelling is to pay attention when filling up your vehicle. Make sure you select the correct fuel type before filling up. If you’re not sure which fuel type your vehicle requires, check the owner’s manual or consult with a mechanic. Also, be mindful when using multiple vehicles or loaning your car to someone else. Double-check the fuel type before using the vehicle to avoid misfueling. Additionally, some vehicles have a misfuelling prevention device that will prevent you from putting the wrong fuel in your tank. If your vehicle has this feature, make sure it’s working correctly.
What Are the Risks of Misfuelling?
Misfueling can cause serious damage to your engine and lead to breakdowns. Petrol and diesel engines are designed differently, and putting the wrong fuel in your vehicle can cause damage to the fuel system, engine, and even the catalytic converter. The cost to repair the damage caused by misfueling can vary depending on the severity of the damage. In some cases, the damage may be so severe that the engine needs to be replaced.
Is Misfueling Covered by Insurance?
In most cases, misfuelling is not covered by insurance. It’s considered a driver error, and as such, you will be responsible for the cost of repairs. However, some insurance policies may offer misfuelling coverage as an add-on. It’s important to check with your insurance provider to see if this coverage is available.
What Are the Consequences of Misfuelling?
The consequences of misfuelling can be severe. In addition to engine damage, misfuelling can also cause a decrease in fuel efficiency, which can lead to higher fuel costs. If you continue to drive with the wrong fuel in your tank, you risk stalling and breaking down on the road. This can be dangerous, especially if you’re on a busy road or in an area with limited visibility.
Conclusion
Misfueling can be a frustrating and costly mistake, but it’s important to remember that it can be avoided. By paying attention when filling up your vehicle, double-checking the fuel type, and being mindful when using multiple vehicles, you can prevent misfuelling from happening. If you do find yourself in this situation, remember to stop driving immediately, call a professional fuel drainage service, and avoid attempting to fix the problem yourself. By following these tips, you can avoid the wrong fuel woes and keep your engine running smoothly.
Don’t let a misfuelling mistake ruin your day. Fuel Fixer’s mobile units are here to help you with the wrong fuel recovery and fuel tank restoration. Whether you’ve put petrol in a diesel car or vice versa, our local team is on call across the UK to assist you. Contact us now to get back on the road safely and efficiently.