Recently, Colorado drivers have been dealing with a frustrating and costly issue: contaminated fuel at gas stations. According to a report by 9NEWS, a state agency is actively investigating multiple stations after drivers reported vehicle breakdowns linked to bad fuel.
๐ You can read the full story here:
https://www.9news.com/article/news/local/colorado-news/state-agency-investigating-colorado-gas-stations-contaminated-fuel/73-5a935c3a-50bf-40e4-9ede-3167d7237f92
Unfortunately, fuel contamination isnโt always obvious until your car starts running roughโor wonโt start at all.
Signs You May Have Bad or Contaminated Fuel
If you recently filled up and noticed any of the following, contaminated fuel could be the culprit:
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Hard starting or no start
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Engine sputtering or stalling
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Loss of power
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Check engine light after fueling
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Rough idle or knocking sounds
If this happens, stop driving as soon as itโs safe. Continuing to drive can make the damage much worse.
What If You Accidentally Put Diesel in a Gas-Powered Vehicle?
It happens more often than youโd thinkโand itโs a big deal if handled incorrectly.
๐จ First: Do NOT Start the Car
If you realize the mistake before starting the engine, thatโs the best-case scenario. Starting the vehicle circulates diesel through the fuel system and increases the risk of damage.
What To Do Next:
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Donโt turn the key โ even โjust to move it.โ
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Have the vehicle towed to a qualified repair shop.
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Fuel system will need to be drained and flushed.
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Fuel filters and possibly injectors may need replacement, depending on how far the diesel traveled.
If the car was started or driven, the repair process can be more involvedโbut catching it early still matters.
Why Fuel Issues Can Get Expensive Fast
Modern engines (especially direct-injection vehicles) are extremely sensitive to fuel quality. Contaminated fuel or the wrong fuel type can damage:
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Fuel pumps
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Injectors
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Sensors
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Catalytic converters
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Internal engine components
Thatโs why quick action is key.
Weโre Here to Help โ Contact Colorado Engine
If you think youโve gotten bad fuel, contaminated fuel, or accidentally put diesel in a gas vehicle, donโt guess and donโt drive it.
๐ Contact Colorado Engine as soon as possible.
Our team can:
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Diagnose fuel-related issues
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Safely drain and flush fuel systems
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Prevent further engine damage
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Help you understand next steps and costs upfront
Fuel problems are stressfulโbut you donโt have to navigate them alone. If something feels off after filling up, trust your instincts and get it checked.
Colorado Engine โ keeping Colorado drivers protected, informed, and back on the road.