It only takes a few seconds of distraction, you have a new vehicle or the result of a deep-rooted habit and, involuntarily, you can put gasoline instead of diesel (or vice versa). This is a common situation, especially for those who alternately drive cars with different types of engines.
Despite the different cores in the hoses and two mouths with specific formats, the change of fuel continues to happen more frequently than you imagine at our supply stations, especially during the period of fairs in which it is more common in a different automobile than yours. The news is that, as it was identified in time, this error can be resolved with minimal impact on your car and on your wallet.
How to confirm the correct fuel type?
If you are driving a car that is not familiar, new or worn, it is essential to ensure that it supplies adequate fuel. There are some simple and effective methods to confirm this information.
verifica o conta-rotações
In gasoline vehicles, the rotational control point can reach 9,000 rotations per minute before entering the mains line. In our diesel cars, it rarely exceeds 6,000 rpm. This is a useful visual clue that can help in case of doubt.
Always consult the manual or the Unique Automobile Document (DUA)
The owner's manual in DUA contains an exact indication of the engine and fuel recommended by the manufacturer.
Observe a tampa do depósito
The most recent vehicles, or type of fuel, are usually indicated on the tank lid, with symbols or clear abbreviations.
Fill with the wrong fuel. Or what to do?
Before anything else, keep calm and concentrate. The nature of the severity of the error depends on the type of engine in your vehicle, the fuel that was introduced and installed, or not, or the engine in operation. Let's look at the two most common scenarios:
Put gasoline number in the automobile to diesel
This error is more recurring and, unfortunately, more prejudicial.
There is no engine link, no face. Contact travel assistance and request a pick-up at an office. It will be necessary to drain the tank and clean the entire feeding system.
If the car is placed in operation, disengage the engine as long as it is possible and safe. In this case, besides the drain, it may be necessary to replace the diesel filter, the injector pump and, eventually, the injectors.
Diesel has essential lubricating properties for the engine's operation. Gasoline, in addition to not fulfilling this function, can cause premature wear of internal components.
Add diesel fuel to a gasoline car
This error is less common, mainly because the fuel tank filler is generally tighter than the diesel hose. Still, if we insist on doubt, it can happen.
If the diesel volume is reduced (less than 10%), the tank must be drained and filled with gasoline immediately. Initially, it will not cause major damage, especially if not linked to ignition.
If the amount of diesel is significant, never drain the engine. Request a light refill or vehicle at an office to drain and clean the entire system.
Sinais that something is wrong
If you are not sure about the type of fuel installed, the car may display warning signs such as:
- Loss of power or irregular acceleration
- Solutions to vulgar noises
- Excessive smoke, no escape
- Luz do motor acesa no panel
- Difficulty starting or engine shutting down unexpectedly
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is advisable to stop driving and contact an assistance service.
Quais os custos envolvidos?
The costs associated with a supply error vary depending on the severity of the situation and the affected components.
Drainage and washing of the system: 100 to 300 euros
Filter replacement: 50 to 150 euros
Injection pump or high pressure system (common-rail): it can reach several thousand euros
In most cases, insurance policies do not charge for damages caused by incorrect supply, some of which include refilling as part of travel assistance.
How to avoid this non-future error?
- Always check the type of fuel before fueling.
- Pay attention to the cores of the hoses (gasoline: green or blue; diesel: white or yellow)
- If the hose does not cover the mouth, do not insist and turn to check the type of fuel you are trying to install.
- Use a self-cleaning fluid with the fuel designation next to the steering wheel or in the tank lid, especially in part-use vehicles.
- Stay calm and avoid distractions
In case of forced paragem, faça-se ver
If, due to an error, you have to immobilize the vehicle in a berm or in a cliff area, security becomes a priority. As the Help Flash emergency device, it is possible to signal your car in seconds, before leaving the passenger compartment to place the triangle, making it visible more than a kilometer away and in 360º. A simple gesture that can make everything different, especially at night or with more visibility conditions.