On January 19, 2025, residents of Avon, Ohio, faced unexpected difficulties after at least 14 customers unknowingly filled their vehicles with diesel fuel instead of the unleaded gasoline they intended to purchase. This mix-up took place at a Circle K gas station located on Chester Road, resulting not only in vehicle malfunctions but also potentially costly repairs for those affected.
Circle K acknowledged the error, stating the mix-up occurred when fuels were delivered to the wrong underground storage tanks. "The car troubles experienced by some customers who purchased fuel at our location... resulted from fuels being delivered inadvertently..." shared a Circle K spokesperson.
The repercussions for customers have been significant. Scott Bauchmoyer, who filled his 2022 Jeep Wagoneer, recounted his experience to the local media. Following the fill-up, Bauchmoyer noticed strange behavior when he attempted to start his vehicle the next day. "It just started sputtering. Lights started flashing, and there was a giant puff of white smoke," he said. After consulting with his mechanic, he learned diesel fuel had contaminated his gas tank, leaving him with repair costs surpassing $1,100.
Another driver, who requested anonymity, also reported damage after mistakenly filling his diesel truck with unleaded gasoline at the same station. This mix-up has left him with mounting repair costs and time lost, as the truck is currently undergoing extensive repairs.
The differences between diesel and unleaded fuels are often overlooked by consumers. According to Shell, unleaded and diesel engines operate differently—unleaded engines utilize electric spark ignition, whereas diesel engines ignite fuel through compression. This characteristic makes diesel fuel thicker and if introduced to engines meant for unleaded gasoline, it can clog filtration systems, leading to severe mechanical failures.
"Diesel is more efficient but can cause catastrophic engine damage when improperly used," notes data from Progressive Insurance. They clarify what happens if the wrong fuel is introduced—vehicles need to stop using the fuel immediately, and professionals strongly recommend the fuel tanks be drained and entire systems flushed, to mitigate any costly consequences.
Circle K took immediate action upon discovering the mix-up, stating, "We shut down our fuel pumps at this location to address the issue as soon as we became aware of it," stated Chris Barnes, Circle K's Director of Communications. The company has since replaced the fuel within affected tanks and is now processing insurance claims from impacted customers.
Response from Circle K has focused on aiding those affected. "We apologize to any customers affected by this issue, and we are working to assist them with their claims," they continued. Customers who have suffered damages are advised to contact Circle K’s customer service department to expedite claim processing.
This incident serves as a reminder to drivers about double-checking fuel types and being vigilant with their purchases, especially at times when errors may slip through. The company anticipates fully covering verified repair costs to restore affected customers' peace of mind. Such mishaps underline the importance of seamless operations within service stations where product integrity is imperative for customer satisfaction.
Circle K's commitment to customer service remains clear, as they work through the logistical challenges of managing customer claims and ensuring fuel quality going forward.
With operations back up and running, local residents may breathe easier now—but the memory of this costly fuel mix-up serves as cautionary tale for consumers everywhere.