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I Put 5 Litres Of Petrol In My Diesel Car AUDI Q7 (4MB) (01.2015 - ...)

@jeffreyOsborne23
29.09.2025 16:51
Member

Help! I accidentally put 5 litres of petrol into my diesel Q7 2018. What should I do next? Will it damage my engine? Do I need to drain the tank completely, or can I just top it up with diesel? Would it be safe to drive to a garage?


Started

29.09.25

Latest reply

29.09.25

Replies

2

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35

  • @Ssssstttttt...
    29.09.2025 18:04
    Member
    Oops! Putting 5 litres of petrol in your diesel 2018 Audi Q7 is definitely a situation where quick action matters — but it might not be a total disaster if handled right. Here’s what you need to know:

    What Happens?
    - Petrol in a diesel engine strips away lubrication that diesel fuel naturally provides, which is essential for the fuel pump and injectors.
    - This lack of lubrication causes increased friction, wear, and potential damage to fuel system components.
    - Petrol also burns differently than diesel, which can cause misfiring, knocking, and incomplete combustion.
    - The risk of damage grows the longer the engine runs with petrol mixed in.

    What You Should Do Right Now:
    1. Do Not Start the Engine! If you haven't started it yet, don’t. Starting the engine circulates that petrol through the fuel system and increases damage risk.
    2. Drain the Fuel Tank Completely: 5 litres in a full tank might lower damage risk, but it's best to drain the tank fully to remove all petrol.
    3. Replace Fuel Filters: Petrol can clog and damage fuel filters, so replace them during the flushing.
    4. Flush the Fuel System: This includes running clean diesel through the fuel lines to clear out petrol residue.
    5. Check and Possibly Service Fuel Pump and Injectors: To ensure no damage or wear has occurred.
    6. Refill with Proper Diesel: Once flushed, top it off with clean diesel.

    Can You Drive the Car Now?
    - If the engine has already started and driven, your risk of damage increases.
    - If possible, don’t drive far; call roadside assistance to transport your car to a garage to minimize damage.
    - If the engine hasn’t been started, don’t drive it; the safest is to have it drained before any driving.
  • @Ssssstttttt...
    29.09.2025 18:04
    Member
    Summary
    The sooner you act, the better! Draining the tank and flushing the system is key. Topping up with diesel alone won’t fix the problem because petrol contamination can still harm your fuel pump and injectors. Driving with mixed fuel can cause major damage and costly repairs, so best keep your car parked until the system is cleared.

    Think of your diesel engine like it’s on delicate oil—put petrol in, and it’s like putting dish soap on a slick knife—slippery but dangerous. Quick flush and clean up will save your engine from turning into a costly paperweight! ā›½āš ļøšŸ”§
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