People who thought they were filling up with premium gas apparently were putting ethanol into their cars at a Rockland County gas station.
People who thought they were filling up with premium gas apparently were putting ethanol into their cars at a Rockland County gas station.
Updated: Thursday, 13 May 2010, 1:13 PM EDT
Published : Thursday, 13 May 2010, 1:13 PM EDT
BY LUKE FUNK
MYFOXNY.COM - Drivers who thought they were filling up with premium gasoline at a Rockland County Costco might have actually been pumping ethanol fuel into their cars.
The Office of Consumer Protection says it has only received about 16 complaints so far but expects the number to jump as media coverage of the incident spreads.
It appears that the Nanuet gas station received a delivery of the wrong type of fuel.
Instead of the premium-grade gasoline, it appears the tank was filled with E85. That is a combination of 85% ethanol, and 15% gasoline. It is only supposed to be used in engines designed for the fuel. It can severely damage cars that were not built for the fuel.
The Costco is not expected to face fines from the county because the error was from the supplier.
Consumer Protection officials say that if a driver bought premium gas at the Nanuet Costco from May 1 to May 3 and has experienced problems call 845-708-7600.