Stop and keep the ignition off
If you realise that the wrong fuel has gone into the tank, stop refuelling and do not start the engine. Avoid switching the ignition on, because some vehicles may activate fuel-system components before the engine starts.
NRMA guidance also advises not starting the engine and arranging assistance. Acting before the vehicle is driven can reduce the chance of the incorrect fuel circulating through the system.
Move away from the pump safely
Tell service-station staff what happened. Ask for help moving the vehicle to a safe parking position without starting it, if this can be done safely and the vehicle can be moved as directed.
Follow all service-station safety instructions. Keep ignition sources away and do not attempt to drain fuel yourself.
If the engine has already been started
If you have driven away or started the engine, stop as soon as it is safe. Switch the engine off and call for assistance. Tell the technician how much fuel may have been added and approximately how far the car travelled.
Symptoms may include rough running, smoke, loss of power, stalling or difficulty restarting, but the response should not depend on waiting for symptoms.
Why the fuel type matters
Petrol and diesel engines use different fuel properties and systems. The effect of misfuelling depends on the vehicle, the type and quantity of incorrect fuel, whether the engine was started, and how far it travelled.
Do not rely on online percentages or attempt to dilute the fuel by filling the tank. The safest step is professional assessment.
What wrong-fuel assistance may involve
The service may require removing the incorrect fuel, flushing parts of the fuel system, replacing filters and checking whether contamination reached other components. The exact process depends on the vehicle and what happened after refuelling.
Some cases can be handled at the location, while others require towing or workshop work.
Information to provide when calling
Give your exact location, vehicle registration, make, model, year, engine fuel type, the fuel added, approximate amount, whether the ignition was switched on and whether the car was driven.
Clear details help the technician prepare the correct equipment and advise you on the next step.
Get wrong-fuel help
Mobile Roadside Mechanic provides assistance across Sydney and the listed service areas, subject to service availability and vehicle requirements. Call 0422 987 222 and keep the ignition off until you receive advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I start the engine to move away from the pump?
No. Tell the station staff and ask for help moving the car without starting it, when this can be done safely.
Can I add the correct fuel to dilute the mistake?
Do not rely on dilution. The correct response depends on the vehicle and amount of wrong fuel, so request professional advice.
What details should I give the technician?
State the vehicle, correct fuel type, incorrect fuel added, approximate amount, whether the ignition was used and whether the car was driven.
Need a mobile mechanic?
Call Mobile Roadside Mechanic on 0422 987 222 or request a quote for repairs, diagnostics, servicing and roadside assistance at your home, workplace or safe roadside location.