Accidentally using the wrong fuel in your car is a common yet costly mistake that can lead to significant engine damage. In South Africa, misfuelling incidents cost motorists millions of rands annually, with repair costs averaging around R9,700 and, in extreme cases, exceeding R100,000. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to do if this happens and how to claim for damages.
Immediate Steps to Take
If you realise the wrong fuel has been added to your car, follow these steps:
- Do Not Start the Engine. Turning on the engine can cause incorrect fuel to circulate through the system, causing severe damage.
- Move Your Car to a Safe Spot: If you are at the petrol station, put your car in neutral and push it to a safe location to prevent blocking pumps or traffic.
- Notify the Petrol Station Manager: Inform the station manager immediately and document the incident, including obtaining a written statement if possible.
- Call for Professional Assistance: Contact your insurer or roadside assistance provider to arrange to drain and flush the fuel system.
Potential Damage Risks Based on Fuel Type
- Petrol in a Diesel Engine: This mistake is more damaging as petrol acts as a solvent, reducing lubrication and increasing friction between engine components like fuel pumps and injectors.
- Diesel in a Petrol Engine: Diesel nozzles are more significant than petrol fuel necks, making this mistake less common. However, diesel won’t ignite in a petrol engine, so the car won’t run properly, allowing the issue to be identified before significant damage occurs.
Claiming for Damages
South African motorists may be able to claim for damages under certain conditions:
- Liability of Fuel Retailers: If you requested a specific type of fuel and the attendant made a mistake, you may lodge a claim against the petrol station’s insurer. While many stations post disclaimers attempting to absolve themselves of liability, these disclaimers may not always be legally enforceable.
- Car Insurance Coverage: Comprehensive motor insurance policies often cover accidental damage caused by misfuelling. However, exclusions may apply if you knowingly drove the car after realising the mistake.
- Legal Action: If insurers or petrol stations refuse liability, legal recourse under contract law, including claims for damages in court, may be an option.
Preventative Measures
To avoid misfuelling:
- Always double-check the fuel type before inserting the nozzle.
- Label your fuel cap with stickers indicating the correct type of fuel.
- Stay attentive during refuelling, even when attendants assist.
South African Statistics
Fuel-related errors, while relatively rare, have significant financial consequences:
- Repair costs for misfuelling incidents average R9,700, with some claims exceeding R100,000.
- Petrol station attendants are responsible for some cases where the wrong fuel is used, complicating liability claims.
- Diesel contamination and fraudulent fuel mixing have also been reported at some filling stations, adding to the risks associated with vehicle fuel.
Using the wrong fuel in your car can be stressful but manageable. By taking immediate action and understanding the process of claiming damages, you can minimise financial losses and protect your vehicle. Staying vigilant during refuelling and implementing preventative measures can help avoid such costly mistakes.
About RBS
Risk Benefit Solutions, better known as RBS, originated as an entrepreneurial-focused services business in 1998 and today is one of the largest fully-fledged black-owned insurance brokers in South Africa and a Level One B-BBEE contributor. Celebrating 25 years in business this year, our growth has contributed to offering clients a unique approach to risk management by positioning our skilled resources as an extension of our client’s risk management team. Our company covers various services, including Insurance Broking, Risk Management, Commercial and Corporate Risk Advisors, and Corporate Vehicle Hire Services. With its head office in Cape Town, RBS has offices in Gauteng, the Eastern Cape and globally, represented through its board membership with WING (Worldwide Insurance Network Group).