I had about 5 litres unleaded in the tank of my 1999 S40 T4. I put in another 15 litres - but I think the attendant must have put lead replacement fuel in. The car started idling badly about a kilometre from the filling station.

A few kilometres further and it had definite flat spots, especially at low revs. I'm not driving it now (thank heavens for bicycles).

It feels a bit like it did when the coils went - but I replaced both only a year ago.

Will the petrol damage the catalytic converter? Gum up the injectors? Cause other mayhem I'm not aware of? Is the best answer just to throw more unleaded in to dilute the LRP?

 

"Lead replacement petrol (LRP) is essentially a 97-octane (super) unleaded petrol with an additive to give the valve seat protection that some cars need."

LRP : - The AA

I do not think it's a problem with LRP since it's 97 octane is far superior to any 93 octane sold in the USA. Now if he put diesel fuel in then that's a problem.

 

Sounds like you may need to change spark plugs. Don't know why 97 oct would cause that though.

 

The 97 wouldnt but if there isnt many cars taking the LRP then it is very much possible that the fuel was dirty/watery.I would let all that fuel out and replace the filter possible also the injectors need a clean.

 

Thanks all. Yes, I think I'm going to drain the tank and start again. Better safe than sorry - I've heard dire warnings about catalytic convertors packing up and other consequences.

It's just struck me now though that a light came on the other day before this happened. On the extreme right of the dash - and it's not in my manual.

It looks a bit like an upside-down Y - or, more correctly, the Greek letter lambda.

Is that a clue in some way? As I say, that light doesn't even feature in the manual.

 

You must have probably taken the car over 88mph and the letter "Y" was to let you know that you infact did engage the flux-capacitor.
I will have to check on that light you probably have the EU version of the car.What color was it?Orange,red or green?The far right corner wheres the check engine light is I guess on every model EU or US but it doesnt just flashs up then goes out and it certainly doesnt look anything like the "Y".Have to check mine if there is anything above it.