Fuel Mix-Up At Southington Gas Station Damages Vehicles: State

SOUTHINGTON, CT — A mistake late last month at a Southington gas station damaged several vehicles when diesel fuel was accidentally put in the wrong tank.

According to the state Department of Consumer Protection, the mix-up happened on Nov. 28 when about 25 vehicles accidentally had diesel fuel pumped into their non-diesel vehicles.

Diesel fuel is thicker and oilier, which means engines cannot ignite properly, and it can cause power loss, stalls, misfires, and damage the engine and catalytic converter.

One way to rectify the problem is a potentially expensive fuel system flush.

State officials said the gas station responsible was the Metro Station on West Street in Southington.

"The tanks were cleaned, and the bad fuel was removed the next day," said DCP spokesperson Kaitlyn Krasselt to Patch Friday.

The fuel company that delivered the fuel, Forbes Premium Fuel, is handling any customer complaints at 203-468-2777, with proof of purchase required, state officials said. Consumers may also file a complaint with our office by emailing DCP.FoodandStandards@ct.gov.