What happens if you put 5 gals of diesel into a gas tank with only a quarter of a tank?

Answer 1

Sounds like you'll soon find out! Obvisously you should not run diesel fuel in your car. Diesel fuel is a light oil, and will mix with the gas to form an even lighter oil. The relatively low compression in a gasoline engine will likely not be enough to create combustion, and will run very poorly if at all. The car's engine controller will attempt to correct the air/fuel mix, and lead to more trouble, even after you fix the gas. The catalytic converter may also get fouled. Before you attempt to drive the car and get this bad fuel all through your line, drain the gas tank out at the fuel filter into gasoline containers and properly dispose of this. Have the car towed to a mechanic if you cannot safely drain the gas yourself. Do not just let the fuel pour out on your driveway or into your yard. This will create a VERY UNSAFE situation, not to mention ruining your yard. Do not attempt to use the collected diesel/gas mix in a diesel vehicle. After you get as much out as you can, fill the car's tank with regular gasoline and you should be OK. A very little bit of diesel (less than a quart) in a large quantity of gas will affect performance, but still run without ruining your car. If you are a real stickler, you should flush the tank with some gas to get all the diesel out. Did you not notice the green handle and high price at the pump? Good luck. <><><> For more information please see the answer to the Related Question shown below.