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The Negative Effects of Misfuelling You Need to Know

You need to understand just how dangerous misfuelling is. For some people, they think that it is an act of stupidity that can be easily reversed. The truth is that it can be way more complicated than that. When you place petrol in a diesel engine, the problem could get worse. Diesel engines are simply not meant for petrol, and the other way around. Here are some ideas about misfuelling to make you think of it more seriously.

Lubrication is reduced

When you place petrol in diesel, it acts as a solvent. As a result, lubrication is reduced, and it can cause serious damages to the fuel pump. This happens due to metal to metal contact. You will be lucky if only some pipes are affected. If the fuel has travelled to several parts of the system, it could potentially destroy the whole thing.

More contamination requires more repair

The level of damage depends on the extent to which the fuel has penetrated the system. The rule of thumb is that if there is more penetration, you will have to do more extensive repairs. Extensive repairs are more expensive. In some cases, a new engine would be required to get the vehicle running again. Minimal repairs could cost around €200. However, they could easily cost up to €2,000 if the problem is really serious.

Diesel engines are quite vulnerable

The more modern versions of diesel engines can get easily contaminated. If this happens, you need to replace the fuel pumps, rails, injectors, filters, and even the fuel tank.

You can be at risk

If you keep driving, even if you know you have misfuelled, you are placing yourself at risk. The vehicle is already at risk. It will not perform as it should, and erratic engine performance could lead to an accident. This is why it is highly recommended to pull over as soon as you notice the problem. The best solution is to have the incorrect fuel removed from the fuel system. This can often be done at the roadside if you have pulled over immediately. Then, the correct fuel can be used – and you will be on your way.

Now that you understand these negative effects, you have to be more careful. Make sure that you don’t misfuel. Understand the vehicle well. In the event that you have misfuelled, you need to know who to call. You should not panic. It does not matter where you are, you can get the right help. Motoserve are efficient and will help you with the situation calmy whilst we help sort the issue.

Regarding repairs, it is a totally different issue which you can deal with later, once you have had your vehicle safely removed from the road. Safety should be a top priority: your own safety and then the safety of your vehicle.