Wrong fuel in your car? Here’s what you need to do
It’s uncommon for petrol attendants to put the wrong petrol in your car, but mistakes can happen.
“It remains the responsibility of the motorist to be aware while the petrol attendant carries out their duties. Double-check the fuel type to ensure a trouble-free refueling experience,” advises Barend Smit, Marketing Director of MotorHappy, a supplier of motor management solutions.
If the wrong type of fuel is put in your car, there are steps you can take to minimise the damage and the cost:
- Don’t panic. It’s an easy mistake to make and there are solutions.
2. Do not start your engine because this could lead to severe damage. You don’t want the wrong fuel to circulate through your engine.
3. Push your car to a safe location within the petrol station if possible. Call the Automobile Association (AA) on 0861 000 234 for assistance.
Alternatively, your Service Plan provider, your insurer or your tracker might offer Roadside Assistance.
4. It’s important to have a professional handle the situation, to avoid costly mistakes.
5. A mechanic will need to drain the vehicle’s tank and clean the fuel system to prevent damage to your engine.
6. The fuel filter will also have to be replaced, ensuring that any remnants of the incorrect fuel are removed from the system.
7. Once the tank has been emptied and the fuel filter is replaced, fill the tank with the correct fuel, start the car and let it run for a few minutes.
Listen for any unusual noises or engine misfires. If you notice anything unusual, let your mechanic check the car immediately.
Smit says it’s also a good idea to label the fuel cap with a sticker indicating the correct type of fuel.
