How can we tell the difference between petrol and diesel?

What is life like with your car? Let us know and win £500 in John Lewis vouchers | No thanks

How can we tell the difference between petrol and diesel?

We have two fuel containers for emergency use in our cars, my husband’s being petrol and mine diesel. Is there any way of knowing which is which? We think they have been switched over after cleaning the boots but aren’t sure. Do we have to just get rid of the fuels and start again?

Asked on 29 June 2013 by RH, Salford

Answered by Honest John

Open the filler cap of the petrol car and take a sniff. Then open the containers and take a sniff. They smell differently.

Tags: petrol diesels

Similar questions

What's the best quality petrol and diesel to use?

What is the best premium fuel brand for petrol and diesel?

Is there a future for diesel cars?

My 520d Touring has been 100% reliable over 9 years / 65,000 miles from new - just needed routine servicing and a battery. I've been planning to replace it with a new 520d Touring but worry that diesel...

Storing five jerry cans of diesel - is it a good idea?

I wish to store diesel fuel in five jerry cans. How long may I store modern fuels before they become contaminated or of reduced efficiency? I would also be interested in petrol storage.