5 Myths About Putting Wrong Fuel In A Car
Who would make such an obvious mistake?
You’re probably thinking it only happens to certain drivers who lack experience, are distracted or are unfamiliar with the car.
If you think it could never happen to you, then have a look at these 5 myths about putting the wrong fuel in a car.
It’s Uncommon
Not according to the AA; the Automobile Association reports every year around 150,000 people in the UK put the wrong fuel in their car. That means a mishap at the pumps occurs every three minutes or so.
And with up to four pumps to choose from, the mistake is more common now than ever before. Modern diesels are far quieter than older models, so it’s easier to confuse them with a petrol model.
Life is also more frenetic than before. It seems everyone is in a rush, even when it comes to filling up. If you’re in a hurry, distracted or frustrated, it’s far easier to make the mistake of choosing the wrong fuel pump.
Complacency also causes mistakes. Re-fuelling is one of those mundane tasks we do every week, and most of us do it without thinking. Many people make the mistake without even realising until it’s too late. If in doubt, check your receipt.
It Only Happens To Certain Drivers
Ah, you say, but these kind of mistakes only happen to certain types of drivers: young and inexperienced, older drivers and even women drivers.
In fact, one of the biggest culprits of misfuelling is the British Police force. In 2015, the Freedom of Information Act revealed that around £400,000 in repair bills were caused by police officers filling their cars with the wrong fuel.
It Will Never Happen To Me
All it needs is a lapse in concentration, a distraction, an unfamiliar car that you may have borrowed or hired, and you could easily make the same mistake.
And don’t just rely on the colour of the hose when you arrive at the pumps. Always read the fuel indicator and the trigger label on the nozzle before filling up.
It’s No Big Deal
Maybe you’ve realised your mistake immediately. That doesn’t mean your car’s engine won’t be affected. Turning on the engine or even unlocking your car can start circulating the wrong fuel through the system.
If the tank isn’t drained and cleaned immediately, you could be looking at thousands of pounds worth of damage.
I Can Still Drive Home
If you’ve realised you’ve made the mistake of putting the wrong fuel in your car after you’ve already set off, pull over and contact Wrong Fuel Angels, even if you are only travelling a short distance. Our wrong fuel recovery service is available 24/7.