What happens when wrong fuel in car?
Accidentally putting the wrong type of fuel in your car can be a distressing experience. It can lead to a range of problems, from minor inconveniences to severe damage that may require costly repairs. Understanding the potential consequences of this mistake can help you take appropriate action to minimize the damage and prevent future occurrences.
When you put the wrong fuel in your car, the first thing that happens is that the fuel may not be able to ignite properly. This is because the wrong fuel may not have the right chemical composition to mix with air and create a combustible mixture. As a result, your car’s engine may not start, or it may start but run poorly.
Another immediate effect of using the wrong fuel is that it can clog the fuel injectors. This is particularly true when you put diesel fuel into a car designed to run on gasoline. Diesel fuel is thicker and more viscous than gasoline, which can cause it to stick to the walls of the fuel injectors and prevent them from working correctly. This can lead to engine performance issues and, in some cases, engine damage.
Additionally, the wrong fuel can cause corrosion in the fuel system. For example, if you put gasoline into a car that is designed to run on ethanol-blended fuel, the ethanol in the gasoline can attract moisture from the air, leading to rust and corrosion in the fuel lines and other components.
Here’s what you should do if you accidentally put the wrong fuel in your car:
1.
Stop the car immediately and turn off the engine. This will prevent further damage to the engine and fuel system.
2.
Do not attempt to start the car. Starting the engine with the wrong fuel can cause more damage.
3.
Call for roadside assistance or drive to the nearest mechanic. It’s important to have a professional handle the situation to avoid causing additional damage.
4.
Follow the mechanic’s instructions on how to remove the wrong fuel. This may involve draining the fuel tank and replacing the fuel lines.
5.
After the fuel has been removed, have the mechanic inspect the fuel system for any damage and perform any necessary repairs.
Preventing future occurrences of putting the wrong fuel in your car involves a few simple steps:
1.
Always double-check the fuel cap and fuel nozzle to ensure you’re putting the correct fuel in your car.
2.
Keep a fuel guide in your car, or take a picture of the fuel cap and nozzle to help you remember which fuel to use.
3.
Consider using a fuel-filler lock that prevents the wrong fuel nozzle from being inserted into the fuel tank.
While putting the wrong fuel in your car can be a costly and frustrating mistake, understanding the potential consequences and taking appropriate action can help you minimize the damage and prevent future occurrences.
