It happens to around 150,000 drivers in the UK every year. You pull into a petrol station, reach for the pump on autopilot, and only realise what you have done when you replace the cap. Putting the wrong fuel in your car is a stressful experience — but if you act quickly and follow the right steps, you can often avoid serious and expensive engine damage.
If you have put the wrong fuel in your car and have not yet started the engine, you are in the best possible position. The fuel is sitting in the tank and has not yet circulated through the fuel system. Do not start the engine under any circumstances. Even turning the ignition to the accessory position can begin to circulate fuel in some vehicles.
If you have started the engine after misfuelling, turn it off as soon as it is safe to do so. The longer the engine runs, the more the wrong fuel circulates through the fuel system and the greater the potential damage. Do not drive the vehicle. Call for recovery immediately.
This is the most common misfuelling scenario. Petrol acts as a solvent in a diesel engine and can damage the fuel pump, injectors and other components. Modern diesel engines are particularly sensitive. If you have put petrol in a diesel car, do not start the engine and call for recovery or a fuel drain specialist immediately.
Diesel in a petrol car is less common because the diesel pump nozzle is larger than a petrol filler neck, making it harder to insert. If it does happen, the engine will typically run roughly and may stall. The risk of serious damage is generally lower than petrol in diesel, but you should still arrange a fuel drain as soon as possible.
A fuel drain specialist will drain the contaminated fuel from your tank and flush the fuel system. This typically takes 30–60 minutes and, if done before the engine is started, often resolves the problem without further damage. Black Eagle Recovery can refer you to fuel drain specialists in your area. Call us on 0330 520 1620.
Some comprehensive car insurance policies include misfuelling cover, but many do not. Check your policy documents or call your insurer. Some breakdown cover policies also include misfuelling assistance. If you are not covered, you will need to pay for the fuel drain and any repairs out of pocket.
Put the wrong fuel in your car? Do not start the engine. Call Black Eagle Recovery on 0330 520 1620 and we will arrange support immediately.
Call 0330 520 1620Leave your details and we'll call you back.
Breaking down is stressful, but knowing exactly what to do can keep you safe and get you back on the road faster. Here is a clear, step-by-step guide covering motorway, A-road and urban breakdowns.
Car recovery costs in the UK vary widely depending on location, distance, vehicle type, and time of day. This guide breaks down typical prices for roadside assistance, local recovery, long-distance recovery, and specialist vehicle transport — so you know what to expect before you call.
Millions of UK drivers have no breakdown cover. If you break down without a policy, you still have options — and you can still get professional recovery quickly. This guide explains pay-as-you-go recovery, what it costs, and how to choose a provider.
Black Eagle Assistant
24/7 · Instant answers
AI assistant · For emergencies call 0330 520 1620