A fuel emergency can make any trip a stressful situation. At one time, you’re filling up your car. You may find yourself asking why your engine is not running or which pump was the wrong one.
You may have filled up a diesel vehicle with petrol. You may have accidentally put diesel in a petrol car. You may even have filled the fuel tank with AdBlue.
The first key step is to take prompt and safe action in whatever has occurred.
We realize the stress that can come with a fuel emergency at Auto Fuel Fixer. For this reason, we provide wrong fuel recovery services for drivers in the UK that are available 24 hours a day.
In this guide, we will cover what causes fuel emergencies, what you should do right away, and what services you can get from a professional roadside assistance company.
What Is a Fuel Emergency?
A fuel emergency occurs when there is a fuel problem with your vehicle that makes it unsafe for you to continue your journey.
There are some problems that appear suddenly. Others occur as a result of a trivial error at the petrol station.
The most frequent fuel-related crises are:
- Fueling a vehicle with petrol in its fuel tank when it is designed for diesel fuel.
- Driving a petrol car on diesel fuel
- Adding AdBlue to the fuel tank
- Discovering contaminated fuel
- Running low on fuel (petrol/diesel)
- Engine issues due to fuel problems
Not all fuel emergencies require the same solutions.
For instance, when the petrol dries up, a fuel delivery or recovery service is needed. Frequently, however, putting the wrong fuel in the car will require a professional fuel drain.
Knowing the difference will help you to avoid needless repairs.
What Should You Do During a Fuel Emergency?
You have a few minutes to make a first impression.
If you have misfuelled the aircraft, your next move may make or break the problem, keeping it simple or costly.
1. Refrain from starting your engine.
If you accidentally fill your car with the wrong fuel, don’t start the engine.
Don’t start the car. In some newer cars, fuel pumps start pumping fuel before the car’s engine starts up.
When starting the vehicle, fuel can be pushed through contaminated fuel lines. This can cause damage to vital parts.
2. Evacuate to a Safe Location.
If you’re still at the petrol station, inform a member of staff.
If feasible and safe, request help to get your car away from the pumps, engine off.
If you have already pulled over, pull over to a safe and legal location as soon as possible.
Never endanger yourself or other people on the road.
3. Don’t try to do it yourself
You may believe that just more of the proper diesel fuel will fix the issue.
Unfortunately, this isn’t a reliable solution.
Adding extra fuel to the tank may result in contamination of the system.
Similarly, fuel draining without proper equipment is hazardous to the fire and the environment.
If you are not sure about the safety of the fuel, please call a Fuel Emergency Specialist.
A fuel recovery professional can determine the situation and offer the most secure answer.
In case of a wrong fuel emergency, call on Auto Fuel Fixer 07477 052265.
Our staff is available to help drivers round-the-clock with fuel removal and recovery.
Common Types of Fuel Emergencies
Petrol in a Diesel Car
One of the most frequently made fuelling errors is to top up a diesel car with petrol.
Diesel lubricates the components in the fuel injection system. Petrol diminishes that lubrication and can cause wear.
If the engine is run, the fuel mixture could flow through the fuel pump and fuel injectors.
Some signs to look out for are:
- Unusual engine noises
- Difficulty starting
- Reduced acceleration
- Excessive exhaust smoke
- Sudden engine stalling
If you notice these symptoms after refueling, stop driving as soon as it’s safe.
A professional fuel drain can prevent further damage from occurring.
Diesel in a Petrol Car
Using diesel in a petrol vehicle can also lead to major running issues.
Sparks are used to start petrol engines. Under such conditions, diesel does not burn in the same way.
This can cause the engine to misfire or be difficult to start.
In addition, you might notice that the car doesn’t accelerate smoothly and there’s a lot of exhaust smoke.
While it is generally larger than a petrol filler opening, mistakes can be made with a diesel nozzle.
It’s safest to refrain from starting the vehicle and to call for help.
AdBlue in the Fuel Tank
If AdBlue should be accidentally fed into the diesel fuel tank, immediate attention is needed.
AdBlue should be stored in a specific system for the purpose of reducing harmful exhaust emissions.
It isn’t a fuel additive.
AdBlue has the potential to contaminate the fuel system if it comes into contact with the diesel fuel in the tank, which may lead to costly damage.
No starting of the engine.
Call in a specialist who can determine your contamination and let you know if you need to drain, clean or make more repairs.
Contaminated Fuel
Sometimes the problem isn’t caused by choosing the wrong pump.
The fuel system can be contaminated with water, dirt, and other foreign materials.
Poor performance, difficulty in starting, and unexpected stalling may be caused by contaminated fuel.
DO NOT SKIP THE UNUSUAL DRIVING AFTER FUELING YOUR VEHICLE.
A professional inspection might help to determine the cause.
Why You Should Never Continue Driving After Using the Wrong Fuel
When the engine is making noise but appears to be operating, it’s easy to keep driving.
But this could exacerbate matters.
Today’s fuel systems have precision components that require specific fuel operation.
Dirty fuel can cause damage to the fuel pump, fuel injectors, and fuel filters.
The longer the engine is run, the more likely it is to cause damage.
Preventing the problem early will increase the chances for the technician to fix the issue without a lot of repairs.
Just because you’ve driven a few miles, do not think the vehicle is out of the repair shop. Stop in a safe manner and consult professionals.
How Does a Professional Fuel Emergency Service Work?
Getting help shouldn’t be complicated.
We’ve designed our roadside recovery process to make it easier.
Step 1: Call for Assistance
Reach out to us and let us know what happened.
There is a few basic pieces of information about the vehicle and location needed.
This typically involves the vehicle make, model, and fuel type of what is added.
We will also inquire as to whether you have begun or driven the vehicle.
Step 2: Mobile Technician Attends
A mobile fuel recovery technician is dispatched to you where coverage and availability permit.
This may be a petrol station, work site, driveway, or appropriate roadside site.
We aim to resolve the issue where your car is, wherever safe and convenient.
Step 3: Remove the wrong fuel from the fuel locker.
The technician checks the vehicle and then utilizes specialist gear to eliminate tainted fuel.
Fuel lines or other components might also require attention, depending on the circumstances.
This will vary depending on the vehicle and if the engine has been run.
Step 4: The vehicle is inspected.
Once fuels have been recovered, the technician can determine if the vehicle is ready for restart.
If there is a sign of mechanical damage, a more in-depth investigation in the garage might be required.
Step 5: Keep going when it is safe.
The majority of wrong fuel-related incidents can be addressed at the roadside.
But not all cars can be started right away.
Before you leave, your technician should tell you what you’ll be done with and suggest any other work that may be needed.
Why Choose Auto Fuel Fixer for a Fuel Emergency?
If you’re stuck, you need simple assistance, not elaborate explanations.
Auto Fuel Fixer is the leading provider of wrong fuel recovery and mobile fuel draining.
Here’s what customers can expect from our service.
24/7 assistance
Fuel emergencies do not operate between 9 and 5. We have 24/7 support service.
Mobile roadside recovery
Our mobile service is designed to provide our services to your vehicle, so you may not need to call a garage for assistance or have to have your vehicle towed.
Specialist wrong-fuel support
We help with petrol-to-diesel conversions, diesel-to-petrol conversions, and AdBlue contamination.
UK service coverage
We offer nationwide wrong fuel assistance, and our service covers Manchester, London and surrounding areas.
Clear guidance
We explain to you what the technician will need and where the next steps are.
We want to help you to safely solve the problem and get back on track on your journey as far as possible.
How Much Does a Fuel Emergency Service Cost?
Fuel emergency assistance costs are based on a number of factors.
These include:
- The type of car and model you have.
- The type of fuel contamination
- Volume of bad fuel in the tank
- Whether the engine was started. Determine if the engine was started or not.
Your location - The effort needed to render the vehicle “safe.
Fuel drain can be cheaper than a repair with a broken fuel pump or fuel injector.
That is why it makes sense to act early and save money.
Always request a specific quotation before making arrangements for assistance and verify included components.
It’s also worth finding out if there is any coverage for misfuelling in your breakdown or insurance policy.
How to Prevent a Fuel Emergency
People don’t want to put the wrong fuel in their cars.
However, there are some basic things that can lessen the risk.
Before filling up, check!
Read the fuel label on the inside of the filler flap before picking up the nozzle.
Use the color of the pump handle, but not as the only indicator.
Take Extra Care With Unfamiliar Vehicles
The fuel used by hire cars or company vehicles may differ from the fuel used by a normal car.
Check the type of fuel before adding.
Avoid Distractions
Distractions can include conversation and phone calls, taking away focus from the pump.
Take time to read the nozzle label.
Fuel levels should be kept at a “sensible” level.
Avoid regularly driving until the fuel warning light appears.
Careful planning of fuel stops can minimize the risk of running out of fuel at an unsuitable location.
Know Who to Call
Keep the information for a trusted roadside assistance service.
When you feel your car is in need of gas, you’ll know where to go.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What should I do first in a fuel emergency?
Do not start the engine if the wrong fuel has been put in the vehicle. If it’s already running, stop safely and switch it off. After that, call a fuel recovery company.
2. Can I drive after putting the wrong fuel in my car?
NO, operating the car will distribute contaminated fuel throughout the system and increase the chance of mechanical damage. If it is safe, STOP.
3. Is a fuel emergency dangerous?
It can be. The wrong fuel can cause damage to the vehicle, and leaking fuel can pose a fire hazard if not handled properly. In the event of being trapped on a road with heavy traffic, first make sure you are safe.
4. How long does emergency fuel draining take?
In simple cases, fuel removal can take about 30-60 minutes to complete. The time is dependent upon the level of contamination and the vehicle type. Additional time for technicians to arrive.
5. Can a fuel emergency be fixed at the roadside?
Yes. Mobile fuel draining equipment can be used for many wrong fuel incidents. However, if there is any mechanical damage the vehicle may need to be inspected and/or repaired further.
6. What happens if I put petrol in my diesel car but don’t start it?
You’ve avoided circulating the incorrect fuel through the engine. If the problem can be corrected with a professional fuel drain, then it may be sufficient to correct the problem before restarting. It is best to have a technician evaluate the vehicle first.
7. What if I’ve already driven with the wrong fuel?
Pull over to a safe location and shut off the engine. Avoid restarting it. Let the recovery technician know how much you have driven and if you noticed any warning signs.
8. Does car insurance cover a fuel emergency?
Misfuelling cover may be included in some insurance policies. Some people don’t include it or make it an add-on. Review the terms of your policy or call your insurance provider.
9. Can I drain the wrong fuel myself?
It’s not recommended. Care needs to be taken with petrol and diesel. In order to safely extract and handle contaminated fuel, specialist equipment is required.
10. Is Auto Fuel Fixer available at night?
Yes. Auto Fuel Fixer offers a wrong fuel assistance service that can be accessed 24/7. You can contact the team for help outside normal working hours.
11. Can putting AdBlue in a diesel tank damage the engine?
Yes. AdBlue can cause fouling and harm to sensitive parts of the fuel system. Don’t start the engine. Have a professional evaluation done right away.
12. Who should I call for a fuel emergency in the UK?
In the event of a wrong fuel incident, call a specialist roadside fuel drain company like Auto Fuel Fixer, 07477 052265. In the case of imminent danger and/or fire, dial the emergency services.
Final Thoughts: Get Professional Help With Your Fuel Emergency
Anyone can experience a fuel emergency.
It’s possible you could grab the wrong nozzle on a busy morning or have a fuel issue halfway through a trip.
Whatever the reason, it’s important to know how to proceed.
If you’ve added the wrong fuel, don’t start your engine. If you have already driven, come to a safe stop and use professional services to get you home.
Auto Fuel Fixer offers 24/7 wrong fuel recovery help throughout the U.K.
Our team can help you with the next step if you have a problem with petrol in diesel, diesel in petrol, or AdBlue contamination.
Fuel emergency assistance is required?
Please contact us by calling 07477 052265 or by visiting autofuelfixer.co.uk.