1. Different Engine Design: Petrol and Diesel engines are fundamentally different in their designs and fuel requirements. Petrol engines are designed for a highly volatile and flammable fuel, while Diesel engines are built for a heavier, less volatile fuel.
2. Compression Ratio: Petrol engines have a lower compression ratio compared to Diesel engines. When Diesel fuel is used in a petrol engine, the higher compression can cause excessive heat and pressure, leading to engine knocking, piston damage, and other internal components failure.
3. Fuel Injection System: Diesel engines typically use a high-pressure fuel injection system, while petrol engines employ a low-pressure fuel injection system. Using Diesel fuel in a petrol engine can damage the fuel injectors, fuel lines, and other components of the fuel injection system designed for petrol.
4. Combustion Characteristics: Diesel fuel has a higher ignition point and a longer combustion time compared to petrol. This difference can disrupt the engine's combustion process, resulting in incomplete combustion, loss of power, and increased emissions.
5. Lubrication Issues: Diesel fuel has different lubricating properties compared to petrol. Using Diesel in a petrol engine can lead to inadequate lubrication of the engine's internal components, causing premature wear and tear.
6. Engine Overheating: Diesel fuel has a higher boiling point than petrol, which can cause the engine to run hotter than its intended operating temperature. This can result in engine overheating, head gasket failure, and other heat-related issues.
7. Clogged Fuel Filter: Diesel fuel can clog the fuel filter designed for petrol, restricting fuel flow and potentially leading to engine starvation.
It is crucial to use the correct fuel specified by the manufacturer for your vehicle to avoid engine damage and ensure optimal performance and longevity. If you mistakenly put Diesel fuel in a petrol engine, it's best to stop the engine immediately, tow the vehicle to a qualified mechanic, and have the fuel system thoroughly flushed and cleaned before attempting to start the engine again.
