Put Petrol in a Diesel Car?
Don't panic. It happens to thousands of drivers in London every year. We drain and flush the fuel system at the roadside, 24/7, usually within 30-60 minutes of your call.
Call Now: 07393 440 255Why is Petrol in Diesel Dangerous?
Do NOT start your engine. Starting the engine circulates the petrol, which can strip the lubrication from your fuel pump and injectors.
Diesel fuel acts as a lubricant for the fuel pump and other components. Petrol acts as a solvent. When you put petrol in a diesel engine, it removes this lubrication, increasing friction between metal parts.
If the engine is run, this friction can cause the fuel pump to disintegrate, sending metal shavings through your fuel system. This can lead to catastrophic engine failure and repair bills running into the thousands.
Unleaded in a Diesel Car, Van or Truck - It's the Same Fix
Whether you put unleaded in a diesel car, petrol into a diesel van, or only mixed a few litres of petrol with the diesel already in the tank, the remedy is the same: drain the tank, flush the lines and filter, and refuel with clean diesel before the engine is run. We do all of it at the roadside.
Our Petrol in Diesel Solution
- Rapid response to your location in London, Essex or Sussex
- Complete fuel tank drain and flush
- Fuel lines and filter cleaning (if required)
- Fresh fuel supply to get you to the nearest station
- Safe, licensed disposal of contaminated fuel
- No towing required - we fix it on the spot
Related guide: Putting petrol in a diesel car? What to do immediately
London Coverage Areas
We have technicians stationed across Greater London to ensure the fastest possible response times.
View All LocationsFrequently Asked Questions
Common questions about putting petrol in a diesel engine.
What should I do first if I put petrol in a diesel car?
The most important thing is to not start the engine. If you have already started it, switch it off immediately. Do not even turn the key to the ignition position, because that can activate the fuel pump and draw petrol into the fuel lines.
Will petrol in diesel ruin my engine?
If you do not start the engine, a fuel drain and flush fixes the problem completely with no lasting damage. If the car has been driven, petrol can wear the fuel pump and injectors, but a prompt drain and flush often still saves the system.
How much does a petrol in diesel fuel drain cost?
Prices are fixed and quoted up front, based on your vehicle and location, and are far lower than a dealership repair or towing plus a workshop bill. Call 07393 440 255 for an instant quote.
How long will I have to wait?
We aim to be with you within 30-60 minutes anywhere in London, and we operate 24 hours a day. Our technicians are stationed across the city and the M25 for rapid response.
I only mixed a small amount of petrol with my diesel - do I still need a fuel drain?
Treat it as if you had filled the tank. Modern common-rail diesel engines are sensitive to even a few litres of petrol because it thins the diesel and removes the lubrication the high-pressure pump relies on. Do not start the engine; call us, tell us roughly how much petrol went in and what the vehicle is, and we will advise whether a full drain is needed.
Do you drain petrol from diesel vans and commercial vehicles?
Yes. Unleaded in a diesel van is one of our most common call-outs. We drain cars, vans, light commercials, trucks and motorbikes, and we offer priority fleet accounts for businesses.