The AA has recruited six technicians to its Fuel Assist service for motorists that put the wrong fuel in their car.

The service, available to members and non-members, was launched in November 2007 in response to the number of misfuels doubling over the last 10 years, around 150,000 nationally each year.

The specialist technicians drain, flush and replenish the vehicle’s fuel system at the roadside. The contaminated fuel is then recycled and used to power cement kilns and furnaces.

Donald MacSporran, AA technical performance manager, said: "We’re investing around £1.7 million in AA Fuel Assist and have plans to recruit additional technicians in other areas.

"The demand is being driven by the growth in diesel car sales – they’re so quiet and powerful that people sometimes forget they’re driving one."

MacSporran said most cases of misfuelling will require a fuel drain. He said it’s possible to get 99% of vehicles back on the road after a 45-minute fuel drain.

"This saves the hassle of having to wait for a garage to book them in and, potentially, up to £5,000 in repair bills, as well as minimising the impact on the environment," added MacSporran.