What to Do if You Fill Your Car with the Wrong Fuel

Firstly: Don't Panic! 

It's normal to feel anxious and frustrated when you realise you've filled your car with the wrong fuel, but panicking will only make the situation worse. Take a deep breath and remind yourself that it's a common mistake that can be resolved. 

Stop Fuelling Immediately 

If you realise your mistake while fuelling your car, stop pumping right away. The more you pump, the more the incorrect fuel will mix with the correct fuel, causing potential damage to your car's engine. Shut off the pump and remove the nozzle from your car. 

Don't Start Your Engine  

At all costs, avoid starting your car's engine if you've filled it with the wrong fuel type. Starting the engine could circulate the wrong fuel throughout your car's fuel system, leading to severe engine damage. Keep the engine off to minimize the risk. 

Move Your Car to a Safe Place 

If possible, push or get help to move your car to a safe location away from the pumps on the forecourt. This will prevent any accidents or additional damage to your car while you sort out the next steps. 

Contact a Professional 

After you've moved your car to a safe place, it's crucial to contact a professional for advice and assistance. Your breakdown cover, or a local recovery company can help you get the car recovered to drain the incorrect fuel from it, preventing further damage. Don’t attempt to fix the problem yourself, as it may exacerbate the issue. 

Provide Information to the Experts 

When you make the call for help, be ready to provide them with essential details. This includes the make, model, and year of your car, as well as the specific type of fuel you accidentally used. These details will help the expert provide you with the best possible solution. Often this will be having the vehicle recovered to a local.

Monitor Your Car's Performance 

After the incorrect fuel has been drained and replaced with the right one, closely monitor your car's performance. Make note of any unusual noises, smells, or changes in the fuel consumption. If you notice any issues, contact your mechanic for further inspection. 

Learn from the Experience 

Accidentally filling your car with the wrong fuel can be a stressful and costly experience. Take it as a lesson learned and put measures in place to avoid repeating the mistake. Double-check the pump label before fuelling, stay focused on the task, and if in doubt, always consult an expert before taking any action. 

There are a few things you could consider to make it less likely to pick the wrong fuel: 

• Make sure you check the label on the unit - don’t just rely on the colour of pump. 
• Put a reminder in the car, like a sticker inside the fuel cap – a lot of newer cars come with these as standard. 
• Don’t use your phone on the forecourt, and ensure that you’re paying attention to the hose and the pump before pumping. 
• Don't get fuel if you’re in a flustered or hungry - you're more likely to make a mistake. 
• If you own a diesel, you could consider buying a ‘stopper’ to go in the filler neck, so a narrow petrol nozzle won’t fit. 

Filling your car with the wrong fuel can happen to anyone, but with the right steps, it can be resolved without causing significant damage. Remember to stay calm, seek professional help, and take preventative measures to avoid such mishaps in the future.