Why Modern Cars Make Wrong Fuel Mistakes Easier Than You Think

Some motorists may not realise that, despite being more advanced, modern cars can increase the likelihood of misfuelling.

Keep reading to find out why and to learn about our fuel removal services.

Reasons Why You Would Expect It to Be Easier to Spot Misfuelling in a Modern Car

The reality is, no matter how careful motorists are at the pumps, it can be easy to misfuel a vehicle. Many people would likely expect this issue to be minimised in newer cars. This assumption is based on modern cars having more powerful sensors, driver aids, and improved technology. There is also often the broad assumption that newer equals safer.

However, the main issue is that misfuelling occurs externally. As there are no universal sensors to detect if the wrong fuel is added, the responsibility still lies solely with the person at the pumps. It’s therefore important not to get lulled into a false sense of security with modern cars. The reality is that any car can be misfuelled.

Why Newer Vehicles Can Make Misfuelling More Likely

As well as drivers not considering the risk of misfuelling with modern cars, there are also a few other reasons why misfuelling is a common mishap.

  • Increased Distractions

Many modern cars have an abundance of technology. This offers an immersive experience for drivers and passengers alike. The negative side of this is that misfuelling can be more common as the person filling the car may still be distracted by previous technology. It can take a few minutes for the brain to switch away from things such as music, meaning concentration can be lacking at the pumps.

  • Reduced Mechanical Awareness

Another reason why there’s an increased risk of the wrong fuel being added to modern cars is because of there being less focus on the vehicle’s mechanics. Features such as keyless ignition systems and automated driving features can cause drivers to disconnect from their car. Having less mechanical awareness means even simple tasks, like fuelling, have less focus and attention.

  • Quieter Engines

Modern cars tend to have quieter engines. With modern cars having less of these sound cues, drivers may be more likely to drive for longer with incorrect fuel.

Even though this reason doesn’t cause misfuelling, it does highlight an issue. This is an issue as driving with the wrong fuel for a prolonged period of time can cause lasting damage.

Contact Wrong Fuel Recovery

If you’ve fallen victim to any of the risks outlined in this article, it’s important to act quickly.

Misfuelling can be rectified as long as you don’t continue to drive and get in touch with our team right away. Removing the incorrect fuel quickly reduces the chance of full engine contamination. This not only prevents further damage, but helps drivers to get back on the road in record time.

The key message is even if you are driving a modern car, you still need to be in tune with the vehicle and its needs.