Sainsbury's Driver Faces £500 Bill After Contaminated Diesel Purchase in Worcester
A Sainsbury's driver was hit with a substantial £500 bill following the purchase of contaminated diesel at a supermarket in Worcester. The incident has raised concerns about fuel quality and customer trust.
Details of the Contamination Incident
Mirren Brewer, the driver involved, filled her car with diesel on 10 February at the Sainsbury's petrol station located on Worcester Road in Droitwich. After completing a school run, a warning light illuminated on her dashboard, prompting her to investigate further.
Upon checking social media, Brewer discovered that other Sainsbury's customers in the Worcestershire area were complaining about issues with the same garage. She later consulted a mechanic, who confirmed that the fuel she had used was contaminated with water, leading to the vehicle's problems.
Financial Impact and Customer Response
The contamination resulted in significant costs for Brewer, totalling approximately £500. This included garage repair fees, £40 for draining the contaminated fuel, and £50 for towing the car. Despite the expense, Brewer expressed relief that her car did not suffer more severe damage, stating she felt lucky in that regard.
However, the experience has shaken her confidence. Brewer told the BBC that the incident has put her off using that fuel station in the future. She plans to pay extra to go to a different station, emphasizing that while she wants to save money, she is unwilling to risk such hassle again.
Sainsbury's Official Statement and Actions
A Sainsbury's spokesperson apologized for the incident and outlined the steps being taken. Further tests at the Droitwich petrol filling station revealed evidence of water in some diesel pumps during a limited period from 10:40 on Monday 9 February to 17:45 on Tuesday 10 February.
The supermarket has closed off the affected tank to customers while repairs are completed. Affected customers are being asked to provide proof of purchase and documentation of any damage costs from a local garage. Sainsbury's has committed to reviewing each case individually and offering an appropriate resolution to ensure fairness.
This incident highlights the importance of fuel quality control and the potential financial repercussions for consumers when standards are not met. It serves as a reminder for drivers to remain vigilant and report any unusual vehicle symptoms promptly.
