Rocketing fuel costs are a primary concern for many motorists, but a potentially more expensive mistake is lurking at petrol stations across the country. According to data from MoneySuperMarket, online searches for "wrong fuel in car" surged by 163% between January and March this year compared to the previous quarter, indicating a growing awareness or incidence of this costly blunder.
The High Cost of Misfuelling
Misfuelling, the act of putting the incorrect fuel type into a vehicle, is a pricey error that can lead to serious engine damage if not addressed immediately. Specialist fuel rescue services typically charge between £120 and £1,000 to drain and flush the contaminated fuel tank. Without adequate insurance coverage, this substantial bill falls entirely on the driver, making it a financial pitfall many cannot afford.
Expert Advice on Immediate Actions
Alicia Hempsted, a car insurance expert at MoneySuperMarket, has outlined the critical steps drivers must take the moment they realise they have filled up with the wrong fuel. Her foremost warning is emphatic: do not start your car. If the engine has already been started, turn off the ignition immediately to prevent further damage.
Once the vehicle is secure, motorists should move it to a safe location by putting the car in neutral and rolling it away from other pumps. This ensures that breakdown providers can access the vehicle without difficulty. Contacting a breakdown provider is essential, as they possess the specialist equipment required to properly drain and flush the tank. Attempting this procedure independently is strongly discouraged due to the risks involved.
Why Misfuelling Is a Year-Round Threat
Alicia Hempsted emphasised that misfuelling is a potentially expensive mistake that can catch drivers out at any time of year. However, the recent spike in online searches suggests a heightened concern among motorists. "If it happens to you, it's important to know how to respond, as misfuelling can seriously damage your car if not dealt with quickly," she stated. Starting the engine after using the wrong fuel can escalate repair costs by hundreds or even thousands of pounds, turning a simple error into a financial catastrophe.
Insurance Implications and Protection
Misfuelling is not typically covered under standard car insurance policies, making it a mistake that should not be taken lightly. In most cases, drivers need to add specific misfuelling insurance to their policy to gain protection, though some comprehensive policies may include it under accidental damage clauses. It is crucial to check your insurance cover to ensure you have the appropriate protection in place, as being unprepared could result in significant out-of-pocket expenses.
MoneySuperMarket has confirmed that the Google search data referenced is accurate as of April 2026, underscoring the timeliness of this warning. With fuel costs remaining high and the potential for misfuelling ever-present, drivers are urged to stay vigilant at the pumps and know the correct procedures to follow if an error occurs.
