Customers Received Diesel Instead of Fuel at Ohio Gas Station, Leading to Costly Repairs

Mar. 15, 2025

A Circle K convenience store at a gas station in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, on Aug. 19, 2024.Photo:Laura Proctor/Bloomberg via Getty

Laura Proctor/Bloomberg via Getty

At least 14 customers said they inadvertently filled their vehicles with the wrong fuel at an Ohio gas station due to a mix-up, resulting in possible costly repairs.

In a statement shared with PEOPLE on Mon. Jan 27, a Circle K spokesperson acknowledged the error occurred on Sunday, Jan. 19, at a Circle K in Avon.

Scott Bauchmoyer told CBS affiliateWOIOthat he filled his Jeep Wagoneer at the Circle K Avon station, and after turning on the ignition, noticed the car sputter and emit a giant puff of white smoke.

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Bauchmoyer later learned from his mechanic that diesel fuel was found in his gas tank.

“My immediate reaction was no way. I’ve gotten gas, I’ve been driving for 26 years, I’ve gotten gas thousands of times. I couldn’t be that absent-minded,” Bauchmoyer said.

He also claimed the costs of repairing his vehicle amounted to $1,100, along with the amount to rent a car and the tow.

Another driver, who asked to be anonymous, claimed to WOIO that his car was damaged at the Avon station on Jan. 19 when his diesel-powered truck was filled with what later turned out to be unleaded. The driver added that his vehicle is now in the shop for repairs.

According to the oil and gas companyShell, the difference between diesel and unleaded fuel is how they are ignited.

“Diesel engines squeeze fuel and air so tightly that the mixture self-ignites without the need for an electric spark,” Shell said. “Diesel engines are more efficient because of their greater compression compared with petrol engines, allowing them to make better use of the heat generated.”

“In the meantime, we have removed and replaced the fuel in the affected storage tanks, and our pumps are once again operational,” the statement added.

Circle K said that impacted customers should contact its customer service department at 1-855-276-1947. The company noted customers will be reimbursed for repairs or associated costs related to their car issues following reviews of their submitted claims.

source: people.com