What Happens When You Pump The Wrong Fuel For Your Chrysler Car?

Accidentally filling up your Chrysler car with the wrong type of fuel can lead to a range of mechanical issues, depending on whether you put gasoline in a diesel engine or diesel in a gasoline engine. When you pump wrong fuel, it’s essential to act quickly to minimize potential damage. Understanding the consequences and the steps to take can save you from expensive repairs and prolonged downtime. Here’s what happens when you put the wrong fuel in your car and how to handle it effectively.

Gasoline in a Diesel Engine

If you mistakenly put gasoline in a diesel engine, the consequences can be severe. Diesel engines rely on the lubrication properties of diesel fuel to keep components like the fuel pump and injectors functioning smoothly. Gasoline lacks these lubricating qualities and has a higher ignition volatility, which can cause serious damage.

When gasoline enters a diesel system, it can lead to the following issues:

• Engine Misfire and Poor Performance: The engine will begin to misfire, and performance will drastically decrease as gasoline disrupts the combustion process.
• Fuel System Damage: Gasoline can cause premature wear of the fuel pump and injectors, leading to costly repairs or replacement.
• Engine Seizure: Prolonged use of gasoline in a diesel engine can result in engine seizure, potentially requiring a complete engine rebuild or replacement.

Diesel in a Gasoline Engine

Filling a gasoline engine with diesel fuel is less common due to the size differences between diesel and gasoline nozzles. However, if it does happen, it can still cause significant issues. Diesel fuel is thicker and more viscous, which can clog fuel injectors and filters.

Symptoms of diesel in a gasoline engine include:

• Immediate Engine Shutoff: The engine will likely shut off shortly after starting due to the inability of diesel to ignite properly in a gasoline system.
• Clogged Fuel System: Diesel will coat and clog components like the fuel filter, injectors, and spark plugs, causing the engine to sputter or not start at all.
• Severe Smoke and Odor: If the engine does run, it will emit thick smoke and a strong odor, indicating that the fuel isn’t combusting as it should.

What to Do If You Pump the Wrong Fuel

If you realize you’ve pumped the wrong fuel before starting the car, do not turn on the engine. Starting the engine will circulate the incorrect fuel through the system, increasing the chances of damage. Here’s what to do instead:

• Do Not Start the Engine: Leave the car in place and call for a tow to have it taken to a professional mechanic for fuel system draining and cleaning.
• Drain the Fuel Tank: The fuel tank will need to be drained entirely to remove all traces of the wrong fuel.
• Flush the Fuel Lines: The mechanic will also flush the fuel lines, injectors, and filters to prevent residue from causing future issues.
• Check for Potential Damage: Depending on how much of the wrong fuel entered the system, additional inspections or part replacements may be necessary.

Contact Us for Professional Fuel System Services

If you’ve accidentally pumped the wrong fuel into your Chrysler car, our dealership is here to help. Our experienced technicians can safely drain and clean your fuel system, inspect for any potential damage, and get your car back on the road quickly. Visit us today for expert assistance with fuel-related issues and other automotive repairs!