Put the wrong fuel in? Don’t start the engine. Find a service near you →

Free guidance for Australian drivers

Put the wrong fuel in your car? Here’s what to do next.

Plain-English guides on petrol in diesel, diesel in petrol, AdBlue and contaminated fuel, so you can make the right call in the first five minutes.

Need help now? Find a service near you
What to do right now
  • Don’t start the engine
  • Don’t turn the ignition on
  • Get a professional fuel drain

What went in the tank?

Petrol in a dieselThe most common mistake, and the most serious.Read the guide Diesel in a petrol carLess common, but it still needs draining.Read the guide AdBlue in the fuel tankAct fast, before anyone turns the key.Read the guide Wrong petrol gradeE10, 91, 95 or 98: when to worry.Read the guide
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  • Services in every stateFind help wherever you are

Just happened?

The next five minutes matter most

  1. 1Don’t start the engineNot even to move the car. Turning the ignition on can prime the fuel pump.
  2. 2Make the car safeHazard lights on, car in neutral, and push it clear of the pump with help.
  3. 3Tell the console operatorThey can close the pump and help you move the car safely.
  4. 4Call a mobile fuel drainMost cars are drained, flushed and refuelled on site in under an hour.
See the full checklist
Mechanic working on a car engine with the bonnet open

Understanding the damage

What wrong fuel does to your engine

Modern fuel systems run at very high pressure with tight tolerances. The wrong fuel changes how the fuel lubricates and burns, and the damage depends on what went in and whether the engine ran.

Petrol in a diesel

Petrol strips away the lubrication diesel pumps rely on. Run it, and the high-pressure pump and injectors can be damaged.

Damage and symptoms

Diesel in a petrol car

Diesel won’t ignite properly in a petrol engine, causing smoke, misfires and fouled spark plugs.

What to do

Read the full guide to misfuelling

Costs and timing

Why acting early saves money

$400–$650Typical on-site fuel drain for a standard car, if the engine hasn’t run
30–60 minHow long most mobile drains take once the technician arrives
$2,000+What a damaged diesel fuel system can cost at a dealer, and often much more

Prices vary by vehicle and location. See our wrong fuel cost guide.

Find help

Find a wrong fuel service near you

Mobile fuel drain services listed by state, so you can call someone local.

VICNSWQLDSAWATASACTNTAll states

Guides

Latest wrong fuel guides

All guides

FAQs

Common questions on wrong fuel

More answers in our wrong fuel FAQs, or send us a question.

What immediate steps should I take if I put the wrong fuel in my vehicle?

Stop using the vehicle immediately to prevent further damage. Avoid starting the engine if you haven’t already. Contact a professional for fuel system drainage and cleaning as soon as possible.

Can wrong fuel cause permanent damage to my car?

Yes, using incorrect fuel can damage the engine, fuel injectors, and catalytic converter. The extent depends on the fuel type and how long the vehicle was operated with the wrong fuel.

How can I identify if my fuel has been contaminated?

Signs include unusual engine noises, poor performance, stalling, or warning lights. Contaminated fuel may also have a different smell or appearance, but professional testing is recommended for confirmation.

Is it safe to drive after misfuelling before getting help?

It is not recommended to drive the vehicle after misfuelling as it can worsen damage. If the engine has not started, do not start it. If already running, stop as soon as safely possible and seek assistance.