This week, over 200 complaints flooded into Colorado regulators after drivers unknowingly filled their tanks with diesel instead of regular unleaded gasoline at local stations like Costco, King Soopers, and Murphy Express.
The trouble began when diesel fuel from a Sinclair terminal was mistakenly delivered to many stations between late Wednesday and early Thursday. The state’s Division of Oil and Public Safety confirmed the contamination after testing samples from the Costco station in Sheridan.
While a comprehensive list of affected gas stations wasn’t immediately available, Sinclair is looking into the issue. King Soopers reported that about a dozen of its stations received the incorrect fuel. They acted quickly, shutting down their fuel lines and sending teams to perform diagnostics.
- 14967 Candelas Pkwy., Arvada
- 25701 E. Smoky Hill Rd., Aurora
- 17000 E. Iliff Ave., Aurora
- 3050 S. Peoria St., Aurora
- 1045 S. 1st St., Bennett
- 12167 Sheridan Blvd., Broomfield
- 2355 W. 136th Ave., Broomfield
- 7284 Lagae Rd., Castle Pines
- 750 N. Ridge Rd., Castle Rock
- 5125 W. Florida Ave., Denver
- 1611 Pace St., Longmont
- 12959 S. Parker Rd., Parker
- 17761 Cottonwood Dr., Parker
The effects of this mix-up can vary. According to Stephen Martindale, service director at Phil Long in Denver, the impact on a vehicle’s engine depends on how much diesel was added. If a car was low on gas and filled up with diesel, it might stall after just a few feet because gas engines can’t ignite diesel fuel.
Martindale suggests that anyone who believes they’ve received contaminated fuel should take their vehicle to a dealership. There, mechanics will likely drain the tank, clean the fuel lines, and may also replace the fuel filter. He estimates that the whole process could cost around $1,000, including towing and proper disposal of the diesel.
This situation highlights a broader concern. According to a 2021 survey from the American Automobile Association (AAA), nearly 1 in 10 drivers have accidentally filled their gas tank with the wrong fuel at least once. The average cost of repairs can add stress to an already frustrating experience, making it crucial for drivers to remain vigilant at the pump.
If you think you might have been affected, you can file a complaint with Colorado’s Division of Oil and Public Safety or call 303-866-4967.
