CONTAMINATED FUEL ALERT: What motorists and taxi drivers need to know
UK motorists and taxi drivers are being warned about the dangers of fuel contamination and misfuelling after reports of faulty petrol station pumps causing vehicle breakdowns and damage.
Experts at LeaseLoco.com are advising drivers to recognise the signs of contaminated fuel and act immediately to avoid further harm to their vehicles.
Petrol tanks can become contaminated through factors such as bacteria, rust, dirt, and condensation mixing with fuel. Signs to watch for include speed fluctuations, sputtering, failure to start, excessive exhaust smoke, unusual odours, or changes in the fuel’s appearance.
If these symptoms arise after refuelling, drivers should stop driving immediately and seek assistance from a breakdown service or a specialist fuel technician who can drain and clean the system. Early action could prevent more severe and costly damage.
In minor cases, the tank can be flushed with fresh fuel. However, significant contamination may require replacement of damaged components in the fuel system.
Motorists are encouraged to keep evidence, such as fuel receipts, mechanics’ reports, or communication about the incident, to pursue compensation from the petrol station or through insurance.
Misfuelling – putting petrol into a diesel vehicle or vice versa – remains another common problem. Diesel in a petrol engine can clog filters and injectors, while petrol in a diesel engine can strip lubrication, leading to fuel pump and injector damage.
Drivers should avoid starting the engine if they realise the wrong fuel has been used and contact a recovery service. Quick action can minimise the risk of damage.
John Wilmot, CEO of car leasing comparison site LeaseLoco.com, said: “Fuel contamination can cause your vehicle to break down and lead to costly repairs depending on the severity of the damage.
“Some of the first signs that indicate you may have filled your car with contaminated fuel include loss of acceleration, engine sputtering, bad odour and blinking ‘check engine’ light.
“Inspecting the appearance of the fuel in the tank can also help identify contamination - fuel should look clear and bright, so if it appears dark, cloudy, and has a layer of sludge, it indicates possible contamination.
“If you notice any signs of contamination, it’s crucial to pull over immediately and avoid running the engine as this will circulate contaminated fuel through the system and may cause further damage.
“The quicker you respond to the initial symptoms, the easier and cheaper it will be to get the contaminated fuel out of the tank and fix any issues it may have caused.”
