A fuel mix-up at a Circle K gas station in Avon, Ohio, has left at least 14 drivers with potentially expensive car repairs. The incident, which occurred on Sunday, January 19th, involved diesel fuel being mistakenly pumped into tanks designated for unleaded gasoline, and vice versa. Drivers reported various issues after fueling up at the affected station, ranging from sputtering engines and white smoke to complete vehicle breakdowns.
Diesel in a Gas Tank – A Costly Mistake
One of the affected drivers, Scott Bauchmoyer, told local news affiliate WOIO that his Jeep Wagoneer began sputtering and emitting a large cloud of white smoke shortly after he filled up at the Circle K in Avon. His mechanic later confirmed that diesel fuel had contaminated his gas tank. Bauchmoyer estimates the repair costs, along with a rental car and towing fees, will total around $1,100.
Another driver, who wished to remain anonymous, reported a similar experience to WOIO. This driver, who owns a diesel truck, unknowingly filled his tank with unleaded gasoline at the same Avon Circle K on January 19th. The vehicle is currently undergoing repairs, and the extent of the damage is yet to be determined. These incidents highlight the significant problems that can arise from misfueling, potentially leading to thousands of dollars in repairs.
Circle K Acknowledges Error and Promises Assistance
In a statement to CBS affiliate WOIO and Fox affiliate WJW, Circle K acknowledged responsibility for the fuel mix-up. The company stated that the issue stemmed from fuels being inadvertently delivered into the wrong underground storage tanks. “The car troubles experienced by some customers who purchased fuel at our location in Avon on January 19 resulted from fuels being delivered inadvertently into the wrong underground storage tanks,” the company said.
Circle K has assured affected customers that they are working to resolve the issue. “As soon as we were made aware of the situation, we shut down fuel pumps at this location,” the company said in its statement. They have since removed and replaced the fuel in the affected tanks, and the gas station is operational again.
Understanding the Difference Between Diesel and Unleaded Fuel
According to oil and gas giant Shell, the key difference between diesel and unleaded fuel lies in their ignition methods. Diesel engines operate through compression ignition, where the fuel-air mixture is compressed to such a high degree that it self-ignites without the need for a spark plug. In contrast, gasoline engines rely on spark ignition, using a spark plug to ignite the fuel-air mixture. This fundamental difference in combustion methods means that diesel fuel and gasoline are not interchangeable. Introducing the wrong fuel type into an engine can cause serious damage to the fuel system, engine components, and catalytic converter.
What to Do if You Misfuel Your Car
Misfueling can happen to anyone, and it’s crucial to know what steps to take if you suspect you’ve put the wrong fuel in your car. The most important thing is not to start the engine. Starting the engine with the wrong fuel can circulate the incorrect fuel through the system, causing significant damage. Instead, you should contact a towing service to have your vehicle transported to a qualified mechanic. The mechanic will drain the incorrect fuel, clean the fuel system, and inspect for any damage.
Circle K’s Response and Customer Support
Circle K has confirmed that they are working with at least 14 customers affected by the fuel mix-up, according to NBC affiliate WKYC. The company has apologized for the inconvenience and is actively assisting customers with their claims. “We apologize to any customers affected by this issue, and we are working to assist them with their claims,” Circle K stated. Impacted customers are encouraged to contact Circle K’s customer service department at 1-855-276-1947. The company has pledged to reimburse customers for repair costs and other associated expenses after reviewing submitted claims. This commitment to customer service is crucial in mitigating the financial burden placed on drivers due to the fuel mix-up.
Preventing Future Fuel Mix-Ups
While accidents can happen, implementing preventative measures can minimize the risk of future fuel mix-ups. Gas stations can utilize clear labeling and signage on pumps and tanks to ensure the correct fuel is dispensed. Regular training for employees on proper fuel handling procedures is also essential. Additionally, drivers should always double-check the fuel type they are selecting before filling their tanks. A moment of careful attention can prevent costly repairs and significant inconvenience.
Frequently Asked Questions about Misfueling
Q: What are the signs of misfueling?
A: Common signs include difficulty starting the engine, sputtering or misfiring, loss of power, excessive smoke from the exhaust, and unusual engine noises.
Q: Can I drive my car if I put the wrong fuel in it?
A: No, you should not start the engine if you suspect you’ve misfueled. Driving with the wrong fuel can cause serious damage to your engine and fuel system.
Q: How much does it cost to repair a misfueled car?
A: The repair cost can vary depending on the extent of the damage, but it can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.
Q: Who is responsible for the cost of repairs if I misfuel at a gas station?
A: If the misfueling was due to an error on the part of the gas station, they should be responsible for the cost of repairs. However, if the misfueling was the driver’s fault, they will likely be responsible for the costs. It’s important to document the incident and contact the gas station management immediately.
