You pull into a gas station, preoccupied with thoughts, and mistakenly grab the diesel pump instead of gasoline. A momentary lapse in attention can lead to an all-too-common predicament: putting diesel in your gas car. While panic might set in, take a deep breath and remember that this situation can be resolved without causing irreversible damage to your vehicle. How? Here are the steps you have to take:
1. Realize Your Mistake
First and foremost, as soon as you realize the error, do not start your car! Starting the engine will circulate the diesel fuel through the system, making the situation more complicated.
2. Don't Push or Drive the Car
Pushing the car or attempting to drive it can lead to fuel system damage, as diesel does not ignite as easily as gasoline. Avoid starting the engine at all costs, as we mentioned above.
3. Call for Help
Contact roadside assistance or a towing service to safely transport your car to a nearby mechanic or service station. This ensures that your vehicle will be handled by professionals with experience in handling such situations.
4. Drain the Fuel Tank
At the service station or mechanic's facility, they will drain the diesel fuel from your gas tank. Avoid the temptation to drain the tank yourself, as this requires specialized equipment and expertise.
5. Flush the Fuel System
After the diesel has been drained, the mechanic will flush the fuel system to remove any residual diesel and ensure that it is free from contamination.
6. Replace Fuel Filters
Diesel fuel can clog and damage gasoline engine components. To prevent any long-term issues, consider replacing the fuel filters after the flushing process.
7. Fill Up with Gasoline
Once your car has been thoroughly checked and the fuel system is clean, fill up the tank with the correct gasoline.
A tip from us: If your gas cap isn't marked with "Gas" make sure to label it with a visible and attention-catching text, sticker, or color.
8. Be Mindful of Warning Signs
While your car should be back to normal after these steps, be aware of any unusual sounds or performance changes. If you notice any issues, bring your car back to the mechanic for a follow-up inspection.
Don't Worry! Things Like That Happen!
If you are looking for a repair shop to flush the diesel out of your gas car, contact us at Marc Yount's Tire Pros. Because of the unusual nature of this issue, it's best to call us at (706) 303-1742, so we can figure out things and get you in the shop ASAP!