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The sale of regular gasoline as premium gasoline and other fraudulent practices are increasingly common; learn how to protect yourself and keep your car safe.
A new fuel fraud is worrying drivers all over the country. This time, the illegal practice involves selling regular gasoline as if it were additive, a trick that not only harms the consumer financially, but can also damage the car's engine. In addition to being a fraud, this practice puts the vehicle's health at risk and requires extra attention from drivers. Do you want to better understand how this fraud at gas stations works, the dangers it poses to your car, and how to protect yourself? Keep reading to find out more!
How does fraud at gas stations work?
In an attempt to make more money, some gas stations resort to dishonest practices, such as selling regular gasoline as if it were premium. This trick involves simply changing the label or misleadingly stating the type of fuel being sold, charging a higher price for a product that does not provide the expected benefits. The fraud may seem harmless, but it can affect your car's engine over time.
Additive gasoline contains components that help keep the engine clean, reducing the build-up of residue. When regular gasoline is used instead of additive gasoline, especially in vehicles that usually use the version with additives, the engine may suffer from the build-up of dirt, which increases the risk of clogging and more serious problems.
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Main types of fraud at gas stations
In addition to this new fuel fraud, there are other practices that deceive consumers and can damage their vehicles. Here are some of the most common:
Sale of a quantity lower than the marked amount (short spout)
This fraud occurs when the fuel pump delivers a smaller quantity than that indicated on the display. Known as “short nozzle”, this practice is difficult to identify with the naked eye. One tip is to ask to do the calibration test on a 20-liter gallon. This way, you can check if the quantity actually matches what is being charged.
Fuel adulteration
Tampering with fuel is another common practice at dishonest gas stations. It involves mixing water, ethanol or even solvents into gasoline to reduce the cost of the product. This can be extremely harmful to the engine, causing malfunctions and even increasing fuel consumption.
Sale of off-spec fuel
The sale of off-spec fuel is a problem that involves selling regular gasoline as premium gasoline or even gasoline that does not meet the standards required by the ANP. This type of fraud directly affects the car's performance, causing an increase in consumption and reducing the useful life of engine parts.
The effects of fraud on the car engine
These gas station scams are harmful not only to your wallet, but also to your car. Constant use of adulterated or inferior quality gasoline can cause serious engine problems, including:
- Clogged injector nozzles: Without the right additives, the engine accumulates residues that clog the injector nozzles, causing failures;
- Increased fuel consumption: adulterated or substandard gasoline makes the engine work harder, which increases consumption;
- Wear of parts: Using poor quality fuels accelerates wear on engine parts, resulting in more frequent and expensive maintenance.
This damage can require expensive repairs and compromise the vehicle's performance, especially in more modern and sensitive engines.
Tips to avoid the new fuel fraud
Protecting yourself from fraud at gas stations requires a little attention and some preventive actions. Here's how to protect yourself and avoid being scammed:
- Prefer to fill up at well-known gas stations, with a reliable brand and a good reputation. Well-known brands usually have strict quality controls, which reduces the risk of fraud.
- Check the fuel pump before you start refueling. Check that the display is reset and that the price per liter is correct. If you suspect anything is wrong, ask the attendant to perform a calibration test.
- Always ask for the receipt after refueling. This document serves as proof of purchase and can be used in case of problems with the fuel. It also helps to track the establishment in case of complaints.
- Pay attention to your car's performance after refueling. If you notice increased fuel consumption, engine misfires, or difficulty starting, it could be a sign that the fuel was adulterated.
The role of the ANP in combating fraud
The National Agency of Petroleum, Natural Gas and Biofuels (ANP) is responsible for inspecting gas stations and combating fraudulent practices. In cases of suspicion, the ANP can fine the establishment, seal pumps and apply fines. recent case in Vila Velha, the ANP acted quickly to fine the station that sold regular gasoline as premium gasoline.
Even with inspections, the ANP faces challenges in combating all fraud in such a vast sector. Therefore, consumer attention is essential. Reporting irregularities helps the ANP identify problems and maintain the quality of the fuel that reaches vehicles.
How to report fraud at gas stations?
If you suspect fraud at a gas station, you have the right to report it. Here's how:
- ANP: Visit the ANP website or call the customer service number to report irregularities.
- Procon: The consumer protection agency can help in case of fraud and provide guidance on the steps to follow.
Remember that reporting is a way to help with inspections and protect other consumers. Reporting is essential to detect fraud and hold gas stations accountable.
The new fuel fraud is a warning to drivers all over Brazil. Practices such as selling regular gasoline as premium or adulterating fuel not only harm consumers' pockets, but can also significantly affect the car's engine. Knowing how to identify fraud and being aware of your vehicle's performance are the best ways to protect yourself against these scams.
Stay alert and if you notice any irregularities, do not hesitate to report them. Monitoring and driver care are essential to combat fraud and ensure that your car receives the quality fuel it deserves.
