Filled up with the wrong fuel: What to do now

You have filled your vehicle with the wrong fuel. There is no need to panic as long as you do not start the engine. We explain what you can do now.

Filled up with the wrong fuel – nothing unusual for the ADAC

According to the ADAC, there are around 20,000 cases of misfueling every year. The actual number is likely to be even higher, as not every case of misfueling is reported to the ADAC, for example if the driver is not an ADAC member.

• So-called “multi-dispensers,” i.e., fuel pumps with multiple fuels, can be confusing. In the past, fuels, at least diesel and gasoline, were clearly separated.

• Modern fuel nozzles fit into almost all fuel tank openings. This applies to both diesel filler necks in gasoline tanks and vice versa.

• Engine noises have now been standardized to such an extent that you can hardly hear any difference inside the vehicle. This can lead to confusion with leased or rented vehicles.

• Advertising is distracting. Not only because the advertising attracts our attention, but also because the actual fuel designation on the fuel pump and nozzle is usually smaller than the advertising text.

• Premium grades such as V-Power or Ultimate make it particularly difficult to choose the right fuel.

• On modern cars, the fuel type is often no longer indicated on the fuel cap.

Putting gasoline in a diesel vehicle

If you fill your diesel vehicle with gasoline, you may be lucky, depending on how much you have filled up and how old your car is. If you have not started the engine or ignition of your car, pumping out the gasoline-diesel mixture is often sufficient. However, repairs are essential if debris has already formed in the fuel system. This repair can cost over $1,000.

• In older models with swirl or pre-chamber diesel engines, a small amount of gasoline is usually harmless. However, we recommend having the tank pumped out.

• On newer models built after 2000 with direct injection or common rail and pump-nozzle system, you should not start the engine under any circumstances. The injection system could be damaged and you will incur the costs described above for a new fuel pump.