What Happens If You Put The Wrong Fuel In Your Car

Imagine the scenario: You're in a rush, pulling up to the gas station to refuel, and your mind is preoccupied with the day's tasks. You hastily grab the fuel pump, and without a second thought, you start filling your car. But suddenly, a sinking feeling washes over you as you realize you've made a critical error — you've put the wrong fuel in your car! As your heart races, questions flood your mind: What will happen to my car? How much will this mistake cost me? If only a wrong-fuel rescue hero would fly in and save the day!

On a serious note, navigating the consequences of misfuelling your vehicle can be daunting, especially when the thought of potential expenses and damages looms. The severity of the situation largely depends on the type of fuel you've mistakenly used and the engine in your car. From engine misfires to clogged fuel injectors, the outcome can range from minor issues to more severe problems that require professional intervention.

By understanding the potential consequences, you'll be better prepared to act quickly and minimize the damage, turning your costly mistake into a valuable learning experience. In this article, we'll delve into the possible things that could happen to your car if you use the wrong fuel and what you can do about it.

Engine Damage

One of the most severe consequences of using the wrong fuel in your car is engine damage. If you mistakenly fill your diesel car with gasoline or vice versa, the fuel may not ignite correctly, causing engine performance problems. Using gasoline in a diesel engine can be particularly harmful, as gasoline does not contain the lubricating properties that diesel does, which can lead to increased friction and heat buildup in the engine. Over time, this can cause damage to the engine's components, including the fuel injectors, fuel lines, and even the pistons.

If you suspect you have used the wrong fuel, taking immediate action to minimize the damage is essential. First, stop driving the car immediately to prevent further damage to the engine. If you have used a small amount of the wrong fuel, filling the rest of the tank with the correct fuel may dilute the contaminated fuel enough to prevent any significant harm. However, if you have used a significant amount of the wrong fuel, it is best to seek professional help. A mechanic or a fuel removal specialist can drain the fuel tank and flush the fuel system to prevent further damage.

The cost of repair can be significant. Depending on the extent of the damage, repairs can cost thousands of dollars, and in some cases, the engine may need to be replaced entirely. It is, therefore, essential to take preventative measures to avoid this costly mistake. Always double-check the fuel type recommended for your car and be aware of any warning signs, such as unusual engine noises, reduced performance, or increased emissions, that may indicate a problem with your fuel system.

Reduced Performance

Using the wrong gas in your car can have immediate and lasting effects on its performance. In the case of a gasoline engine, introducing diesel fuel can lead to misfires, poor combustion, and a significant lack of power. Diesel has different combustion properties than gasoline, which can result in fouled spark plugs and a clogged catalytic converter. Although the engine might not suffer extensive damage, the vehicle may stall, and the fuel system will likely require a thorough flush and cleaning before it can function properly again.

Conversely, pouring gas into a diesel engine can cause even more severe consequences. Gasoline acts as a solvent in a diesel engine, stripping away the lubrication necessary for the smooth operation of metal components. This lack of lubrication can cause increased friction, damaging the engine's internals, such as pistons and cylinder walls. Additionally, gasoline has a lower flash point than diesel, which can lead to pre-ignition and detonation, further damaging the engine.

In both scenarios, the car's performance will be hindered — a drop in power, decreased acceleration, lessened fuel efficiency, and the engine may suffer long-lasting damage. Depending on the severity of the situation, costly repairs may become necessary.

Increased Emissions

If you mistakenly pump the wrong fuel into your car, you could unknowingly contribute to air pollution. As the engine struggles to process the incorrect fuel type, it can generate excessive smoke and release harmful pollutants into the atmosphere. In the case of gasoline-powered cars, putting diesel can cause incomplete combustion, leading to a surge in hydrocarbon emissions.

Additionally, when diesel is inadvertently used in gasoline engines, misfires, poor combustion, and lack of power could result in higher levels of carbon monoxide (CO) emissions. CO is a poisonous gas that can be lethal in high concentrations, contributing to smog formation. This, in turn, aggravates respiratory issues and exacerbates climate change. Furthermore, the improper combustion caused by using the wrong fuel can also lead to the release of nitrogen oxides (NOx), which have been linked to respiratory problems and the formation of acid rain.

In an era where concerns about air pollution and climate change are increasingly pressing, using the correct fuel is crucial for maintaining the efficiency of our vehicles and minimizing their environmental impact. By being vigilant and ensuring that we fuel our cars with the recommended fuel type, we can contribute to the global effort to reduce harmful emissions.

Expensive Repairs

As you can tell by now, using the wrong fuel in your car can lead to costly repairs that can significantly impact your finances. The kind of damage caused by the wrong fuel can vary depending on the type used and the make and model of your car.

Using the wrong fuel can also damage other parts of your car's fuel system, such as the fuel pump, fuel injectors, and fuel lines. These parts are designed to work with specific fuel types and can be damaged if the wrong fuel is used. Repairing or replacing these parts can be expensive and time-consuming and may also require additional repairs to other parts of the engine.

Talking about all these expenses, you might have asked yourself: "Does my insurance cover misfuelling?" According to an article by Progressive, in terms of flushing and removal of the wrong fuel, your car insurance won't probably cover the costs, but it wouldn't hurt to check with them. However, if you believe that the petrol station is at fault (i.e., they mislabeled the fuel pump), it would be best to consult a legal professional.

Final Thoughts

In summary, putting the wrong fuel in your car can have a range of negative consequences, from reduced performance and fuel efficiency to costly repairs and even permanent engine damage. That is why it is always important to double-check if you have the right fuel pump at hand when refueling. By staying vigilant, you are saving yourself from unwanted stress and financial worries down the line.

And if you ever need engine servicing for your Acura vehicle, Davis Acura in Philadelphia, PA, is here. We also offer roadside assistance, flat tire changes, emergency fuel delivery, and more if you get a certified preowned vehicle or a brand-new model. Contact us now for more information by filling out our form or by calling us at (215) 943-7000.