The Importance of Using Correct Fuel

There was a time when the bowser for diesel fuel was stand alone and was not included with the petrol fuels. Now, when we pull up at a service station to re-fuel there’s an array of nozzles and multiple fuels to choose from, diesel and petrol side by side. Add to this, the faster pace of everyday life and it is no wonder that we can make the simple mistake of putting petrol in a diesel car and vice versa.

Unfortunately, given the complex technology of today’s vehicles, this simple mistake can have costly repercussions, in particular, petrol in a diesel engine. In some vehicles, just turning the key but not starting the vehicle, can send the wrong fuel through the fuel pump and injectors causing damage. In some cases, the vehicle is driven many kilometres before it eventually stops, the driver unaware that they had put the wrong fuel in.

In our workshop, we regularly have vehicles towed in due to incorrect fuel being put in. At the very least, the fuel tank needs to be drained and the fuel filter replaced and new correct fuel added. Even this minor repair can be costly.

So, the next time you fill up, take a few seconds to double check that the fuel you are about to put in is the correct one for your vehicle. It could save you a lot of heartache and cash!

*Photo by Wassim Chouak