English 
Spanish 
4 min read
0 comments
Just imagine: you stop at a gas station, place your usual order, and without realizing it, the attendant puts the wrong fuel in your car. Incorrect fueling of vehicles is a real problem and more frequent than many people imagine. Whether it's due to driver distraction, attendant error, or even questionable attitudes at the gas station, the fact is that filling up with the wrong fuel can cause headaches and a hefty bill for the consumer. But how can you resolve this situation without losing out?
Incorrect fueling of vehicles: what the law says Instances of incorrect fueling of vehicles constitute abusive practice, according to the Consumer Protection Code (CDC). According to the law, the customer is not obliged to pay for fuel that he or she did not order, whether it is gasoline, diesel, or even additive gasoline supplied without authorization. The Code compares this type of error to a “free sample,” which makes it clear that the consumer should not bear the costs of poorly performed service at the gas station.
However, proving the error is not always easy. The client needs to prove that made the correct order and was not responsible for the mistake. A practical strategy is to use on-board cameras, such as dashcams, to record the order made to the gas station attendant. This way, if necessary, the recording can be presented to consumer protection agencies, such as Procon, or even to a Specialized Consumer Protection Police Station.
Step by step guide to solving the problem at the gas station
If you notice that your vehicle is not fueling properly, stop the car immediately and avoid starting it to avoid increasing the risk of damage.
- Korean researchers have developed the world's first ammonia 2.0 engine — which could be used in vehicles, ships, planes and industrial power generators
- Unprecedented technology: Toyota CEO promises electric car that doesn't require chargers – a new era in the automotive industry!
- 18-lane highway built to ease traffic, but there's a problem: it gets congested every day
- Fiat's popular car with UNO engine is sold for around R$35 and will beat rivals in 2024 by achieving 15 km/l
Try to reach an agreement with the gas station so that you only pay for the correct fuel that you ordered. In many cases, the manager himself may recognize the error and propose a solution.
Take photos of the tank, the amount at the pump, and ask for receipts or invoices for the fuel that was actually put in. If possible, write down the name of the attendant and any witnesses.
What if the problem affects the vehicle's engine?
Fueling errors at gas stations affect different types of engines in different ways. Flex-fuel cars have greater tolerance, as they are designed to run on both ethanol and gasoline. Diesel vehicles, especially those with modern engines, are highly sensitive to other fuels.
Diesel engines that should only receive S-10 diesel can suffer serious damage with S-500 diesel, which increases the risk of catalytic converter clogging, higher fuel consumption and higher pollutant emissions.
For any type of vehicle, if you notice a fueling error, avoid trying to “burn” the wrong fuel. It is recommended that you call a tow truck and take the car to a specialized mechanical workshop, where it will be necessary to drain the tank and check for possible damage to the fuel pumps.
Repairs and reimbursement
Repairing damage caused by incorrect fueling of vehicles can cost more than R$1, depending on the severity. If it is proven that the error was the fault of the gas station, the company is obliged to cover the repair costs. If the gas station refuses to cover the damage, the consumer can hire a lawyer and take the case to a special court.
Practical tips to prevent and resolve problems with incorrect fuel supply in vehicles:
Tell the attendant exactly how much fuel you want and, if possible, monitor the refueling process. Choosing a gas station with a good reputation and that prioritizes quality service is essential to avoid problems.
Keep your tank well documented, especially in cases of larger refuelings or long trips. Invoices, receipts and even photos are important proof. The consumer has the right to refuse payment for incorrect fuel and to demand compensation in case of damage.
Incorrect fueling of vehicles is a problem that affects not only the driver's pocket, but also the safety and performance of the car. Knowing your rights and how to act can make all the difference when resolving the issue with the gas station.
