Colorado Receives 200+ Fuel Contamination Complaints, Customers Face High Repair Costs
Colorado is currently facing a fuel contamination crisis, with over 200 complaints from drivers who purchased tainted gasoline. This situation arose after Colorado’s Division of Oil and Public Safety issued a recent alert regarding several gas stations in the Denver metro area.
Details of the Contamination Incident
The contaminated fuel was reportedly sold from 2 p.m. Wednesday to 6 a.m. Thursday. Major gas stations involved included Costco, Murphy Express, and King Soopers. Many customers have expressed frustration, anticipating high repair costs due to potential damage to their vehicles.
Repair Costs for Affected Drivers
- General manager Aason Monie from Christian Brothers Automotive in Parker indicated that repairs could range from $1,000 to $1,500.
- If further repairs are necessary, such as fuel pump replacements, costs could escalate significantly.
State Response and Recommendations
Cher Haavind, the deputy executive director for the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment, confirmed the state had received an extensive number of complaints. She advised that consumers should reach out directly to the retailers where they purchased the gasoline.
Haavind emphasized the importance of notifying filling station operators about suspected contamination. The state is working closely with these retailers and suppliers for further information.
Investigation and Regulatory Actions
- Zach Hope, manager of the state’s Storage Tank Program, noted that it appears the contamination was unintentional. This factor might influence potential fines against Sinclair, the company responsible for the mix-up.
- The mix-up occurred at Sinclair’s Brighton facility, where diesel fuel was mistakenly shipped as regular unleaded gasoline.
Impacted Gas Station Locations
King Soopers has identified several stations affected by the contamination:
- 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
Next Steps for Affected Customers
The Colorado Division of Oil and Public Safety encourages anyone affected to submit a complaint online or call 303-866-4967 for assistance. State officials are committed to addressing the issue and keeping the public informed.
