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Calculating the Cost of Putting the Wrong Fuel in Your Car in Ireland
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Discover MorePutting the wrong fuel in your car is a mistake that can happen to anyone—especially when you’re rushing, tired, or driving an unfamiliar vehicle. But how much does it really cost when this happens? The answer depends on what steps you take next.
In this guide, we’ll break down the real costs of misfuelling in Ireland—and how calling Fuel Rescue can save you time, money, and stress.
Real story: A tourist’s €250 mistake – that could’ve been worse
“While visiting Ireland, I accidentally filled my rental car with the wrong fuel. I only realised after driving a few miles. Thankfully, I found Fuel Rescue. For €250, they drained the tank on-site and prevented further damage. If I hadn’t acted quickly, the costs would have been far higher.”
– A tourist in Ireland
What goes wrong when you misfuel?
Whether it’s petrol in a diesel engine or diesel in a petrol engine, the wrong fuel can:
- Damage fuel pumps and injectors
- Contaminate the entire fuel system
- Cause serious engine failure if the vehicle is driven
These issues escalate the longer you drive, so stopping immediately is critical.
Breaking down the costs of putting the wrong fuel in your car
Here’s how to calculate the potential cost of misfuelling in Ireland:
- Cost of wasted fuel: Check your receipt or the pump reading. Depending on the tank size, this could be anywhere from €50 to €150.
- Towing charges: If your car needs to be moved to a garage, towing can cost upwards of €100, especially in rural areas. Add storage fees if the garage can’t inspect the vehicle immediately.
- Fuel system or engine repairs:
- Mild cases (caught early): €150–€250 for draining and flushing
-
Severe damage (if driven too far): €1,000–€5,000+
You may need parts replaced—or even a new engine in extreme cases. - Time and inconvenience: Lost time, missed work, and arranging alternative transport also carry a real financial and emotional cost.
Save money with Fuel Rescue
The best way to reduce these costs is to avoid towing and garage delays altogether. Fuel Rescue offers:
On-the-spot fuel drains at roadside or car parks
- Fast response anywhere in Ireland
- Affordable pricing (typically around €250)
- Minimal engine risk, since we act before damage occurs
Instead of paying for towing and waiting at a garage, our specialists come directly to you and fix the issue on-site—often within an hour.
What to do if you’ve put the wrong fuel in your car
- 1. Stop the car immediately – Driving makes the problem worse.
- 2. Turn off the engine – Don’t try to restart it.
- 3. Call Fuel Rescue – Reach us on 086 255 1079 or 01 280 7661.
- 4. Wait safely – We’ll be with you as soon as possible.
Tips to avoid misfuelling in the future
- Always double-check the pump before filling up
- Look at your fuel cap – petrol and diesel caps are usually labelled
- Don’t rely on colour alone – nozzle colours vary across stations
- Be cautious with rental cars – especially if they’re different from what you’re used to
- Avoid distractions at the pump – take a moment to focus
Don’t let misfuelling cost you more than it has to
If you’ve accidentally filled up with the wrong fuel in Ireland, don’t panic—but don’t delay either. Acting quickly can make the difference between a minor expense and a major repair bill.
Call Fuel Rescue on 086 255 1079 or 01 280 7661 or contact us online.
We’ll get to you fast, drain the wrong fuel, and get you moving again—saving you time, money, and hassle.