Experts are warning that drivers could find themselves dealing with expensive vehicle repairs amid a spike in petrol station issues.
Data suggests that motorists are most likely to accidentally put the wrong fuel in their cars during spring, with Google searches increasing 51 per cent in March.
It is estimated that around 150,000 drivers misfuel every year, which can bring devastating consequences for vehicles, which may require hefty repair costs.
Putting petrol in a diesel car is problematic for the vehicle, as the diesel engine relies on unleaded's lubricating properties, which petrol does not have.
Do you have a story you'd like to share? Get in touch by emailingmotoring@gbnews.uk
Drivers could face expensive repair costs if they put the wrong fuel in their vehicles
GETTY
When petrol is inserted into a diesel engine, experts warn that this can cause friction and damage to components including fuel lines and pumps.
Some of the telltale signs of misfuelling can be very noticeable, like unusual engine noises, smoke, reduced acceleration, and even seeing the engine cut out.
People who accidentally put diesel in a petrol car likely won't deal with as severe damage, although it may clog spark plugs and disrupt the fuel system.
Alicia Hempsted, car insurance expert at MoneySuperMarket, commented on the warning, adding: "Misfuelling is a common and potentially costly mistake.
"Whether it’s down to being distracted or confusion with a new car, it can catch drivers out all year round. However, March seems to be the peak month for misfuelling according to Google searches.
"This may be due to many drivers buying new vehicles in Spring, which may have a different fuel type from their previous car, or perhaps it's simply because people start driving again after winter and get caught out."
According to Simple Fuel Solutions, a wrong fuel rescue service, it can cost between £120 and £1,000 to have fuel drained from a vehicle.
This can depend on the type of fuel, as well as if the fuel is contaminated with substances like water, or if AdBlue is added to the fuel.
Hempsted added: "Misfuelling happens to thousands of drivers every year. Having the right insurance in place can help cover the costs, so make sure you’re protected. Always get professional help and avoid trying to fix the issue yourself."
It comes as drivers see some of the lowest petrol and diesel prices in the last few months, as global oil costs approach a near three-year low.
According to RAC Fuel Watch, a litre of unleaded currently costs 136.11p, while diesel drivers will be paying around 142.56p.
The motoring organisation estimates that both fuel prices should "fall sharply" in response to worldwide oil costs and a volatile stock market following President Donald Trump's tariffs announcement.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
It is estimated that 150,000 people put the wrong fuel in their cars every year
GETTYSupermarket fuel prices at the four biggest retailers are selling petrol for an average of between £1.31 and £1.33, with diesel prices ranging from 137.6p to 139p.
Lower prices will be a welcome sight for many motorists, who will still have memories of June and July 2022, when petrol and diesel prices peaked at 191p and 199p, respectively.
