If you drive a gasoline-powered vehicle, putting diesel gas in it will result in serious consequences. If you make that mistake, taking certain steps can avoid severe damage. Here's a guide to what happens and what to do to resolve the problem. 

What Happens?

Your gas-powered vehicle's fuel pump is not designed to pump diesel fuel, which is denser and thicker than gas. The pump will struggle under the strain of pushing the mixture through the fuel system. The diesel's thicker composition will clog the fuel filter. If any diesel fuel gets into the engine, it will clog and disable the fuel injectors. 

Once the engine runs out of any gasoline remaining in the fuel line, the engine will shut down because it cannot burn diesel fuel easily. Diesel gas must be heated by pressure, and gasoline is ignited with fire. If any diesel fuel does burn, you will hear the engine knocking, because diesel has much less octane than gas.     

What Should You Do?

As soon as you realize you put diesel gas in your tank accidentally, do not drive the vehicle. You should have it towed to an automotive shop. To protect the vehicle's fuel system, it needs draining and cleaning. 

The shop mechanic will empty the gas tank, flush the fuel lines, injectors, and rail, and replace the fuel filters. While the process takes time, it is not difficult. Most importantly, the draining and cleaning process prevents long-term damage to the fuel system, including the injectors.

Whether you drive a vehicle that uses unleaded or diesel gas, fill up at Tri-Mart BP in Tripoli, WI. Since 1992, This locally owned and operated gas station and convenience store offers diesel, unleaded gas and propane for cars, trucks SUVs and Residents and travelers across Lincoln and India counties enjoy their fast and friendly service, as they have since 1992. For more about what they offer, visit them online. Call and speak to a team member at (715) 564-2440.