Consequences of Putting Diesel in a Gasoline Car
What happens if you make the mistake of putting diesel fuel into a gasoline-powered car? Unfortunately, this is a common error that can lead to major engine damage. Here are a few key things you should know about this costly mistake.
What Will Happen
When diesel fuel is pumped into a gasoline-powered vehicle, it is almost impossible for the engine to process it. As a result, several things can happen:
- Loss of Power – Your car’s engine may sputter or cease entirely, leaving you stranded on the road.
- Complete Engine Failure – The wrong fuel can cause your engine to lock. Its internal components can be seriously damaged, which is expensive to repair.
- Corrosive Damage – The wrong fuel can corrode parts of your engine, like the spark plugs, fuel lines and fuel pump.
How to Avoid this Mistake
Taking the time to research the type of fuel your engine requires is the safest action. Several quick steps can help protect your engine and wallet from this mistake:
- Read the owner’s manual for the type of fuel required for your car
- Double-check the fuel pump labels to make sure you don’t mix them up
- Consider getting a fuel decal or fuel ring which display the correct fuel type
It’s worth noting that if you make the mistake of putting diesel fuel in a gasoline car, do not attempt to start the engine. This simple error can lead to a costly repair bill or even a complete engine replacement.
