05/06/2026
People often ask what actually happens to a fuel system when petrol is put into a diesel vehicle.
Most people know about the lack of lubrication and the potential for injector and pump damage, but there are other issues that can occur throughout the fuel system.
Take a look at this O-ring from a diesel fuel system. This seal is normally a precise fit in its recess, but after exposure to unleaded petrol it has expanded significantly. Petrol can cause certain rubber components designed for diesel fuel to swell, soften, and lose their shape.
When this happens, seals may no longer fit correctly, leading to fuel leaks, air entering the system, poor performance, hard starting, and costly repairs.
That’s why it’s important not to start the vehicle if you’ve accidentally filled it with the wrong fuel. The sooner the contamination is removed, the better the chance of avoiding damage.
If you’ve put petrol in a diesel or diesel in a petrol vehicle anywhere in Darwin or surrounding areas, give Mobile Wrong Fuel Drain NT a call. Most vehicles can be repaired on-site without the need for a tow truck, saving you time, money, and inconvenience.
📞 Fast response
🚗 On-site service
⛽ Wrong fuel specialists
