Imagine this: you pull into your local gas station, fill up your tank, and drive off, expecting everything to run smoothly. Shortly after, though, your car starts sputtering, the engine light flickers on, and you’re left wondering what’s gone wrong. Chances are, you’ve encountered “bad gas.” But what exactly does that mean, and what should you do if it happens to you? Let’s dive into the world of contaminated fuel, how gas stations handle it, and what steps you can take to protect your vehicle.​

What is “bad gas”?

“Bad gas” refers to fuel that’s been contaminated or doesn’t meet the standard quality required for optimal engine performance. Contaminants can include water, dirt, or even the wrong type of fuel. For instance, earlier this year, a mix-up at a Circle K station in Avon, Ohio, led to diesel fuel being dispensed into vehicles that required unleaded gasoline, causing significant damage to several cars.

How does fuel become contaminated?

Fuel contamination can occur at various stages:

At the refinery: Errors during the refining process can introduce impurities.​

During transportation: Fuel can pick up contaminants while being transported to gas stations.​

At the gas station: Issues like corroded underground storage tanks or water infiltration can lead to contaminated fuel.

What should a gas station do upon discovering contaminated fuel?

When a gas station realizes it’s dispensing bad gas, prompt action is crucial:

Stop sales immediately: Halting the sale of contaminated fuel prevents further vehicle damage.​

Investigate the cause: Identifying the source of contamination helps in addressing the root problem.​

Notify authorities: Reporting to relevant agencies ensures compliance with regulations and initiates oversight.​

Drain and clean storage tanks: Removing contaminated fuel and cleaning tanks prevent future issues.​

Assist affected customers: Offering reimbursements or covering repair costs helps maintain customer trust.​

For instance, after that fuel mix-up in Ohio, Circle K shut down the pumps, replaced the contaminated fuel, and started assisting affected customers with their claims.

What are your rights as a consumer?

If you’ve been affected by bad gas, you have several avenues to seek resolution:​

File a complaint with authorities: Agencies like the Department of Agriculture or Consumer Protection can investigate and mediate. Some will even come out and test your fuel to confirm the presence of impurities right away…even the same day.​

Contact the gas station: Report the issue directly to the station; they may offer to cover repair costs, assuming you follow certain administrative steps.

Consult legal advice: If necessary, seek legal counsel to understand your rights and potential compensation.

Preventative measures: How to protect your car

While not all instances of bad gas can be avoided, here are steps to minimize risk:

Choose reputable gas stations: Stations with high turnover are less likely to have stale or contaminated fuel.​

Be observant: If you notice a fuel delivery truck at the station, consider returning later. Fueling during or shortly after a delivery can stir up sediment in storage tanks.​

Monitor your car’s performance: If your car starts acting up after a fill-up, have it inspected promptly.​

Encountering bad gas is more than just an inconvenience; it can lead to costly repairs and significant frustration. Gas stations have a responsibility to ensure the quality of the fuel they dispense and to act swiftly when issues arise. As a consumer, staying informed and vigilant can help protect your vehicle and your wallet. Always address fuel-related issues promptly and seek assistance when needed to keep your car running smoothly.