Recent events at a 7-Eleven petrol station in Nunawading, Melbourne, have left many drivers frustrated and stranded after unknowingly filling their vehicles with contaminated fuel. The incident, which occurred on a Saturday, highlights the serious consequences of compromised fuel quality.
What Happened?
According to reports, water from recent rainfall leaked into the petrol station’s underground storage tanks, contaminating the fuel supply. This issue affected multiple fuel types, including Diesel, Unleaded 98, and 91-Octane. As a result, motorists found their cars breaking down immediately after refueling.
Footage captured by witnesses showed drivers assessing their damaged cars, with one motorist holding a bottle of bright green petrol, evidence of the fuel’s contamination. One driver claimed, “All these cars, every single one here is ruined because of the water in their fuel.” Another added, “Cars were just dying immediately once they started running.”
Immediate Impact on Drivers
Stranded drivers quickly began warning others at the scene to avoid refueling. Frustrations ran high as affected vehicles refused to start or suffered severe mechanical issues. Police were eventually called in as tensions escalated among customers.
Fuel contamination can lead to significant damage, including corrosion, fuel injection problems, or microbial growth within the engine system. Repair costs due to such damage can reach thousands of dollars, making this a costly mistake for many unsuspecting motorists. Drivers are advised to monitor for signs of contaminated fuel, such as a darker-than-usual appearance or a foul odor.
7-Eleven’s Response
7-Eleven Australia has confirmed that the issue is isolated to the Nunawading branch and has immediately suspended fuel sales at the location. The company assured customers that investigations are underway and promises compensation for all affected vehicles. However, specific details regarding the compensation process are yet to be announced.
What To Do If You Suspect Fuel Contamination
If you believe your vehicle has been damaged by contaminated fuel, follow these steps:
- Obtain a written confirmation of the issue from a certified mechanic.
- Contact your car insurance provider to report the incident.
- Report the issue to Consumer Affairs Victoria or the Federal Government’s Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment, and Water at 1800 803 772.
Protect Your Vehicle from Fuel Contamination
To avoid potential engine damage caused by poor-quality fuel, it can be helpful to use a fuel cleaning or stabilizing product that enhances engine performance. Products like the STP Fuel System Cleaner are designed to remove contaminants and safeguard your engine against buildup and corrosion.
Conclusion
The Nunawading fuel contamination incident serves as an important reminder for drivers to remain vigilant when refueling. Always look for quality assurance at service stations and act quickly if any issues arise. For the affected drivers in Melbourne, the hope remains that 7-Eleven will deliver on their promise of fair compensation without delay.
