What Happens If You Put Diesel in a Gas Car?
It’s easy to make mistakes when refueling a vehicle, and unfortunately putting diesel in a gas car is a very dangerous one. As tempting as it may be to fill up your gas tank with diesel fuel, it’s important to remember that gasoline and diesel are not interchangeable effortlessly.
Consequences of Putting Diesel in a Gas Car
The diesel engine is made to be able to tolerate more contaminants than the gasoline engine. So, when diesel fuel is put in a gasoline engine, it causes these contaminants to run through the fuel lines, which then create the following consequences:
- Engine Damage – As the diesel fuel passes through the valves, they become clogged and cause the engine to misfire, which can severely damage the engine and cause it to fail.
- Clogged Fuel Lines – The fuel lines can also become clogged and cause a blockage if the driver continues to drive with diesel fuel mixed in a gasoline engine.
- Higher Emissions – The diesel fuel mix in a gasoline engine can produce a high amount of emissions that can damage the environment.
- Major Repair Costs – Unfortunately, these consequences of putting diesel in a gas may end up costing you a ton of money to have your engine repaired.
What To Do After Putting Diesel in a Gas Car
In the unfortunate event that you have put diesel in a gas car, the following steps can help reduce the potential damage:
- Refuel with gasoline immediately. This may help to flush out some of the diesel fuel inside the engine.
- Don’t start up the car. As soon as you realize you put diesel in a gas car, turn off the engine and seek professional help.
- Have the fuel system flushed by a professional. A professional mechanic can remove the diesel fuel from the fuel system using a fuel flusher.
- Have the spark plugs and oxygen sensor replaced. Diesel fuel may damage these components, so it’s best to have them replaced.
- Have an oil change. This will help flush out any remaining contaminants inside the engine to help restore it back to its original condition.
The Bottom Line
Mixing diesel and gasoline is a mistake that is far too common and can cause extensive damages to your vehicle. In the event that you do put diesel in a gas car, make sure to refuel with gasoline immediately and take your car to a professional mechanic to help reduce the amount of damage that has been caused.
