Who here has a diesel car? Ever accidentally filled it up with petrol instead? Did you know that there are companies that just deal with people who have put the wrong fuel into their vehicles?
It is something we see all too often unfortunately- even one of our technicians at work did it a few weeks ago. It is so easy to do at fuel stations where there is no consistency in the colour of the fuel pumps. As can be seen from just two different fuel stations in Perth, the colours are different.
So what do you do if you have filled up with petrol instead of diesel? Well if you have worked it out before starting the car you are in luck. Contact one of the many companies such as Wrong Fuel rescue https://www.wrongfuelrescue.com.au and they can drain the fuel tank before any damage has been done. If, however, you have started and driven you car and it stops on its own, then you may have done more damage. The first thing to do is ring your insurance company. Ironically most insurers will cover this sort of damage. The vehicle will then need to be towed to your mechanic for extensive and costly repairs.
What would be ideal is if we could stop this from happening at the source. Some of the newer diesel cars, actually come with a device fitted to the fuel filler neck that prevents you from putting in petrol. If yours doesn’t then it is possible to purchase a fill safe diesel cap from Super cheap auto or Repco for around $60.00 (approximately). This will save you a fortune in the long run.
As always, Happy and safe Driving
Gabbi
https://mechanicalmums.com/2026/05/18/lets-talk-diesel-cars-and-refueling/