Put the wrong fuel in? Here's what to do.
It's an easy mistake and it can be fixed. What you do in the next few minutes makes the biggest difference.
First things first.
- Don't start the engine, or even switch the ignition on. Keyless? Don't press start.
- If it's safe, put it in neutral and push it to a safe spot away from the pump.
- Call or WhatsApp us with where you are, your reg and roughly how much went in.
- Stay safe and wait for us. We'll tell you the price before we set off.
Do and don't
Do
- Leave the ignition off
- Tell the petrol station staff
- Push it clear of the pump if it's safe and you have help
- Take a photo of the pump and your receipt
- Call us: 07464 344885
Don't
- Start the engine "just to move it"
- Switch the ignition on to check the fuel gauge
- Top up with the right fuel and hope
- Let anyone else start it
- Put yourself in danger on a busy road
Why the ignition matters
On many vehicles the fuel pump starts as soon as the ignition is on, before the engine even turns over. That pulls the wrong fuel from the tank into the lines and pump, which makes the job bigger and the risk of damage higher. With the ignition off, the wrong fuel stays in the tank, where we can drain it quickly.
Already started it?
Switch off as soon as it's safe and don't try again. It's still fixable: we drain and flush the system. Tell us how far you drove so we know what to expect.
On a motorway or busy road
Get everyone out on the side away from traffic and stand behind the barrier if there is one. Call us with exactly where you are, and we'll tell you whether we can reach you or the vehicle needs moving first. In immediate danger? Call 999.
What to tell us
- Where you are: station name, road or postcode, or send a map pin from our get help page
- Your reg, make and model
- What went in, and roughly how much
- Whether the engine has been started or driven
What your mix-up means
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The four things to do in the next five minutes.
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