What should I do if I filled up with incorrect fuel in my Ford?

Do not attempt to start the engine if you have filled the fuel tank with incorrect fuel. Incorrect fuel use could cause damage not covered by the Ford Express New Vehicle Warranty. The vehicle should be immediately checked.

Putting petrol in your diesel car may damage your fuel system if not dealt with properly. When you put petrol fuel in, the mix of petrol and diesel acts as a solvent, reducing lubrication and causing damage to the pump as the metal parts come into contact and rub together. Other parts of the fuel system, which might not be compatible with petrol, can also be damaged.

Switching on your car’s ignition will circulate this mix of petrol and diesel through your fuel system, causing further contamination to other components. Ultimately, this could mean that the entire fuel system requires costly repairs or replacement.

Putting diesel in a petrol car is a less serious mistake to make, and the damage is usually not so severe. If the engine is started, the diesel will coat the spark plugs and the fuel system. Typical diesel in a petrol car symptoms include the vehicle misfiring. Other signs of diesel in a petrol car include the engine smoking and, of course, the vehicle stopping. The engine may cut out or fail to start at all.