Shell investigating reports of Fakenham petrol station branch selling ‘contaminated’ fuel to customers, causing damage

A fuel company is looking into complaints regarding “contaminated” diesel at a town petrol station.

Complaints flooded into Fakenham’s Shell garage two weeks ago after customers said the branch was knowingly selling normal diesel as their premium alternative, causing damage to their cars.

Motorists took to Facebook with concerns about whether or not their vehicles would join others that were said to have broken down.

One user commented: “So the diesel I filled up today is contaminated? If so, what do I do? I can’t afford my car breaking down.”

According to insurance company RAC, premium diesels usually have a higher cetane number and higher concentration of detergent and other additives, which helps to maintain engine performance and efficiency.

Both diesel tanks at the Fakenham garage were closed off, and a spokesperson for Shell confirmed the business is looking into the reports.

“If we had an issue, we would have many complaints, and so we are investigating as a precaution.”

They told the Lynn News that fuel tests would take place on Wednesday, April 2.

The company added: “We are investigating the report of a fuel issue at this site, with the retailer that operates the forecourt having initially closed off both diesel tanks as a precaution.

“Customers can expect high-quality fuels from every visit to every Shell forecourt, so we’re keen to look into any report of fuel not meeting standards.”

RAC has advice on its website on what to do if you have put the wrong fuel in your car:

• Leave your engine switched off and avoid putting your key in the ignition

• Let staff at the petrol station know what has happened

• Put the car in neutral

• Push the car to a safe place

• Call breakdown cover to drain and flush your fuel system

• Call your insurance provider as soon as possible