What to Do If You Put the Wrong Fuel in Your Car in Essex

Misfuelled Car Fixer Essex
Jan 14
3 min read

Putting the wrong fuel in your car is a mistake that happens more often than you might think. Whether you accidentally filled a petrol car with diesel or a diesel car with petrol, the consequences can be costly and stressful. If you find yourself in this situation in Essex, knowing the right steps to take can save your vehicle from serious damage and reduce repair costs. This guide explains exactly what to do if you put the wrong fuel in your car and how to get help quickly.

Recognising the Problem Early | Wrong Fuel in Car Essex

The first step after realising you have put the wrong fuel in your car is to stop using the vehicle immediately. Continuing to drive can cause the wrong fuel to circulate through the engine, leading to damage to fuel injectors, filters, and the engine itself.

Signs you may have put the wrong fuel include:

Engine misfiring or stalling shortly after refuelling
Difficulty starting the car or failure to start
Warning lights on the dashboard related to the engine or fuel system
Unusual noises from the engine

If you notice any of these symptoms after refuelling, do not attempt to drive the car any further.

What to Do Right After Filling Up

If you realise your mistake while still at the petrol station or shortly after, follow these steps:

Do not start the engine if you haven’t already. Starting the engine can circulate the wrong fuel and cause damage.
Inform the petrol station staff. They may have protocols or contacts for emergency assistance.
Call our specialist service - Misfuelled Car Fixer Essex at 0330 122 6640. We operate 24/7 and can provide immediate advice and assistance.

How Professionals Fix Misfuelled Cars

Specialist services in Essex, such as Misfuelled Car Fixer Essex, use professional equipment and techniques to safely remove the wrong fuel from your vehicle. Our process includes:

Draining the contaminated fuel tank completely
Flushing the fuel lines and filters to remove any residue
Checking damaged components
Refilling the tank with the correct fuel
Testing the vehicle to ensure it runs smoothly again

This thorough approach prevents long-term damage and restores your car’s performance.

Costs and Risks of Driving with the Wrong Fuel

Driving a car with the wrong fuel can cause serious damage to the engine and fuel system. For example:

Petrol in a diesel engine can cause damage to the fuel pump and injectors because petrol lacks the lubricating properties diesel requires.
Diesel in a petrol engine can clog spark plugs and cause the engine to stall.

Repair costs vary depending on the extent of the damage but can range from a few hundred to several thousand pounds. Early intervention by a specialist can significantly reduce these costs.

Preventing Fuel Mistakes in the Future

Avoiding putting the wrong fuel in your car is the best way to prevent costly repairs. Here are some practical tips:

Always double-check the fuel type before filling up.
Pay attention to the labels on the fuel pump and your car’s fuel cap.
If you drive multiple vehicles, keep a note of which fuel each one requires.
Use reminders or stickers near the fuel cap to indicate the correct fuel type.
Take your time at the pump, especially if you are in a hurry or distracted.

Why Choose a Local Specialist in Essex

When you misfuel your car in Essex, time is critical. Local specialists like Misfuelled Car Fixer Essex offer 24/7 emergency support, fast response times, and expert knowledge of local garages and repair shops. Our experience with a wide range of vehicles ensures your car gets the right treatment quickly.

Calling 0330 122 6640 connects you to a team ready to help you avoid further damage and get your car back on the road safely.

What to Expect After the Fix

Once the wrong fuel has been removed and your car repaired, you should notice:

Improved engine performance
Smooth starting and running
No warning lights on the dashboard
No unusual noises or smells

If problems persist, return to the specialist for a follow-up check. Early treatment usually means your car will not suffer long-term effects.