Putting the wrong fuel in your vehicle can be a costly and potentially dangerous mistake. If you put unleaded plus instead of unleaded, it can cause a range of problems, from decreased fuel efficiency to engine damage. In this article, we will discuss what happens if you put unleaded plus instead of unleaded, including the risks and consequences of using the wrong fuel. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of the importance of using the correct fuel for your vehicle.
The Difference Between Unleaded and Unleaded Plus:
Unleaded and unleaded plus are both types of gasoline, but they have different octane ratings. Octane is a measure of a fuel’s ability to resist “knocking,” which is when the air-fuel mixture in the engine ignites prematurely. Unleaded gasoline typically has an octane rating of 87, while unleaded plus has an octane rating of 89 or 91.
The Risks and Consequences of Using Unleaded Plus Instead of Unleaded:
Decreased Fuel Efficiency: Using unleaded plus instead of unleaded can decrease your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. This is because the higher octane rating of unleaded plus can cause the air-fuel mixture to burn less efficiently, leading to decreased mileage per gallon.
Engine Damage: Using unleaded plus instead of unleaded can cause engine damage, particularly in vehicles that require unleaded gasoline. This is because the higher octane rating of unleaded plus can cause the air-fuel mixture to burn too slowly, leading to engine damage and potentially costly repairs.
Increased Emissions: Using unleaded plus instead of unleaded can increase your vehicle’s emissions, particularly if your vehicle is not designed to use unleaded plus. This is because the higher octane rating of unleaded plus can cause incomplete combustion, leading to increased emissions of pollutants.
Potential Safety Risks: Using unleaded plus instead of unleaded can potentially create safety risks, particularly if the engine is damaged or the emissions are increased. This can lead to a range of problems, from reduced performance to increased risk of accidents.
What to Do If You Put Unleaded Plus Instead of Unleaded:
If you accidentally put unleaded plus instead of unleaded, there are a few steps you can take to minimize the risks and consequences:
Stop Pumping: If you realize you are using the wrong fuel, stop pumping immediately. Do not start your vehicle or turn on any electronics.
Seek Assistance: If you are at a gas station, seek assistance from the attendant. They may be able to help you drain the fuel and refill your tank with the correct fuel.
Call for Help: If you are not at a gas station or are unable to get assistance, call for help. A tow truck or mechanic may be able to help you drain the fuel and assess any potential damage.
Avoid Starting Your Vehicle: Do not start your vehicle or turn on any electronics until you have drained the fuel and refilled your tank with the correct fuel. Starting your vehicle can cause further damage to the engine.
Preventing Future Mistakes:
To prevent future mistakes, it is important to pay attention to the type of fuel your vehicle requires. Check your owner’s manual or the label inside your fuel door to determine the correct fuel type. Additionally, make sure that you are using the correct fuel pump at the gas station and double-check the type of fuel before pumping.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, using unleaded plus instead of unleaded can have a range of risks and consequences, from decreased fuel efficiency to engine damage. If you accidentally put unleaded plus instead of unleaded, it is important to take immediate action to minimize the risks and consequences. By paying attention to the type of fuel your vehicle requires and double-checking the type of fuel before pumping, you can prevent future mistakes and ensure that you are using the correct fuel for your vehicle.