What Happens If You Put Antifreeze in a Gas Tank?

By Staff WriterLast Updated March 29, 2020

When antifreeze is poured into the gas tank, it can cause damage to the vehicle.The vehicle may not start or it will begin to sputter if it is drivable. If the driver continues to operate the vehicle, the antifreeze could possibly ruin the engine.

Antifreeze is a yellow or green liquid that circulates through a car’s radiator and draws heat from the engine. If antifreeze has been placed in the gas tank by mistake, the vehicle should be towed to the nearest mechanic to prevent further damage. The mechanic will drain the antifreeze from the gas tank.

There is, however, a type of gas-line antifreeze that is made to keep water out of your engine and gas tank.