What is Misfuelling in Car?

There is no denying that a car adds a great sense of comfort while travelling but at the same time it also brings an immense sense of responsibility too. From looking after the maintenance of the car on a regular basis to renewing the car insurance policy from time to time, there are a number of things that you need to be wary of. One important thing that you must always keep in mind is fuelling the car’s fuel tank with the right fuel type. Read on to understand all about misfuelling in cars.

What is Misfuelling in a Car?

Think of a situation where you go to the petrol pump and mistakenly say to fill diesel in a petrol car. Such a case when the wrong fuel gets filled in the car petrol tank leads to misfuelling and this is exactly what is called misfuelling in a car. The most common reason behind misfuelling in a car is due to an individual’s irresponsibility or misunderstanding regarding the right fuel type. No matter what the reason behind misfuelling in the car is, it might lead to severe consequences such as those listed below:

• Both diesel and petrol have different properties. For instance, the engine in a petrol car uses a spark for ignition and on the other hand, the engine of a diesel car uses compression for ignition. So, in case there is any error in fuelling of the car, then that might lead to damage to the vehicle’s engine.

Now let’s also understand what happens when petrol enters the tank of a diesel car and vice versa:

• When diesel enters a petrol car: Diesel is heavier than petrol and thus if it enters a petrol car, then it will result in the clogging of the fuel filter. This will ultimately lead to stalling of the car as well as smoke will also be emitted. 

• When petrol enters the diesel car: Now, when petrol enters the diesel car, the damage can be more quick and intense. You will not just see a lot of smoke being emitted but you will also see that the car has stopped working. 

What to Do When Misfuelling Happens?

In case there has been a case of misfuelling, then here is what you need to do:

• The moment you realise that the fuel tank of your car has been misfuelled, then it is very important that you get it drained as soon as possible. The draining will prevent contamination if it has taken place.
• You should also inform your car manufacturer about the misfuelling so that they can provide the best assistance regarding the process. You can also take your car to the service station. 
• You must get your vehicle towed in case a misfuelling has taken place. 

Tips to Avoid Misfuelling

There are different ways in which you can avoid the chances of misfuelling. Listed below are the tips that will help you to avoid misfuelling:

• You must never hurry when you inform about the fuel type of your car at the petrol station
• You should always keep an eye on when the car’s fuel tank is being filled to ensure that the right fuel type is being poured in
• You should clearly communicate the right fuel type to the fuel attendant at the petrol station

Take Away

Thus, you should always be alert while getting the car’s tank fueled up. This will help in reducing the chances of misfuelling and the risk of accidents. Moreover, you should always have a car insurance policy to be prepared against such unforeseen circumstances.

Also read: Tips For Travelling With a Baby in the Car