It has recently emerged, that the petrol contamination scare which has caused hundreds of cars in the South East to break down may be caused by silicone. The element, which should not be in petrol, has been detected in the fuel tanks of some of the affected vehicles and this may explain why they have been juddering, misfiring and losing power.
The major concern appears to be the oxygen sensors in car exhausts that have failed in some vehicles, probably as a result of faulty petrol. As a result, engine management systems cut power to prevent further damage to the engine, allowing drivers to only "limp home".
Many of the drivers who have complained said they bought petrol from Tesco and Morrisons and these may face the majority of claims being made.
If you have been affected, what should you do? Before making a claim you should do the following:
- Take a sample of the fuel if possible and keep it safe*
- Keep the receipt for the fuel purchased
- Have your vehicle repaired. Ensure that the repairer confirms the fuel contamination in writing
- Keep a copy of the repair estimate and the invoice
- If you had to hire a car, keep receipts for hire costs or receipts for public transport expenditure and any other expenses incurred as a result of the contaminated fuel
- Write down what happened and when as quickly as possible whilst facts are clear in your mind.
The Association of British Insurers have advised that motorists affected by contaminated petrol may be able to claim for accidental damage if they have comprehensive cover. Check your motor policy and if doubt, contact your insurer as quickly as possible.
If you do not have insurance cover, you should contact the petrol supplier as quickly as possible to advise them of your claim. Tesco for example have already set up a claims handling procedure.
*Do not keep fuel in or near your house. If this caused a fire your home insurance policy could be invalidated.
