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Before Refueling Your Car in July, You Need to Know This

Written by Carla Teles
Published on 02/07/2025 at 13:22
Antes de abastecer seu carro em julho, você precisa saber disto
O risco ao abastecer seu carro em julho aumentou! Com a fiscalização da ANP suspensa, saiba como identificar combustível adulterado e proteger seu motor.
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The National Petroleum Agency (ANP) Suspended Monitoring of Fuel Quality, Requiring More Attention from Drivers to Avoid Problems and Losses.

The price of gasoline remains high, averaging R$ 6.23 per liter in the last week of June. Now, in addition to the cost, drivers face a new concern. The Fuel Quality Monitoring Program (PMQC) of the ANP is suspended throughout the month of July. This means that inspections at gas stations will not occur, and care when filling your car needs to be doubled.

Why Was Fuel Inspection Suspended in July?

The National Agency of Petroleum, Natural Gas and Biofuels (ANP) confirmed the suspension of the inspection program from July 1 to 31. The measure was described as emergency.

The reason is the recent budget cuts faced by the agency. The ANP’s discretionary spending budget has seen a drastic decline in recent years. In 2024, a new block of R$ 27.7 million further reduced the available amount, forcing a temporary halt to monitoring.

Created in 1998, the PMQC is responsible for monthly collections of gasoline, ethanol, and diesel samples at stations across Brazil for quality analysis.

Tips for Filling Your Car Safely During This Period

With inspections on hold, the responsibility to choose a safe location falls even more on the consumer. Some precautions are essential:

  • Prefer Trusted Stations: Fill up at establishments you already know and trust the quality.
  • Choose Well-Known Chains: Opting for stations with established brands in the market reduces risks.
  • Beware of Very Low Prices: Prices significantly below the average in your region may be a strong indication of adulterated fuel.
  • Observe Your Car’s Performance: If you notice any strange behavior in the vehicle after filling your car, the fuel may be the culprit.

How to Identify If the Fuel Is Adulterated?

The car gives clear signs when the fuel does not meet expected quality. According to Gilberto Pose, an expert in fuels at Raízen, the main indications are:

  • Difficulty Starting: The engine turns, but it doesn’t start, especially in cold mornings.
  • Irregular Idling: The engine’s rotation fluctuates (goes up and down) even when the car is stopped.
  • Acceleration Failures: The car sputters or loses power when accelerating, such as when leaving a traffic light.
  • Increased Consumption: An irregularly functioning engine consumes more gasoline or ethanol than normal.

I Filled Up with Poor Quality Fuel, What Now?

If you suspect that the fuel is adulterated, the recommendation is clear: do not use the remaining tank. Trying to consume all the product to avoid “losing money” can actually lead to much higher costs with vehicle maintenance.

If adulteration is confirmed, the solution is to seek a specialized mechanic to perform a complete drain of the tank.

Where to Report Irregular Fuel Stations?

The sale of fuel outside specifications can result in fines for the station ranging from R$ 20,000 to R$ 5 million, as well as the closure of the establishment.

Consumers who feel harmed can file complaints with the National Consumer Secretariat (Senacon), an agency linked to the Ministry of Justice, or with the State Program for Consumer Protection (Procon) in their region.

With information from AutoEsporte

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Carla Teles

I produce daily content on economics, diverse topics, the automotive sector, technology, innovation, construction, and the oil and gas sector, with a focus on what truly matters to the Brazilian market. Here, you will find updated job opportunities and key industry developments. Have a content suggestion or want to advertise your job opening? Contact me: carlatdl016@gmail.com

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