1. Stop driving immediately: Do not start the engine or attempt to drive the vehicle any further. Turning the engine over with regular unleaded gas in the system can cause severe damage to the fuel injection system and other engine components.
2. Call for towing: Contact a towing service or have the vehicle towed to a nearby mechanic or automotive repair shop. It is not safe to drive the vehicle with regular unleaded gas in the diesel engine.
3. Explain the situation to the mechanic: Inform the mechanic that you accidentally put regular unleaded gas in the diesel engine. Provide as much information as possible, including the type of fuel, the amount added, and when it was added.
4. Fuel system flush: The mechanic will perform a fuel system flush to remove the regular unleaded gas from the fuel tank, fuel lines, and injection system. This process typically involves draining the fuel tank, cleaning the fuel lines, and replacing the fuel filter.
5. Inspection and repairs: The mechanic will inspect the fuel injection system and other engine components for any damage caused by the regular unleaded gas. Depending on the extent of the damage, repairs may be necessary, such as replacing injectors, pumps, or other affected components.
6. Follow-up maintenance: After the repairs are complete, it is important to follow the recommended maintenance schedule for your diesel engine. This includes regular oil changes, fuel filter replacements, and fuel system treatments to prevent future issues.
It is crucial to address this situation promptly to avoid significant damage to your diesel engine. Regular unleaded gas is not compatible with diesel engines and can cause serious problems if not removed and replaced with the correct fuel.