Diesel Put in Gasoline Tank at Busan Self-Service Station, Affecting 180 Cars

A fuel-mixing accident at a self-service gas station in Busan affected about 180 vehicles and could leave some drivers facing repair bills worth tens of millions of won.

The incident occurred on Aug. 25 at a self-service station in Saha District. An employee mistakenly poured diesel into a tank containing gasoline while transferring fuel. Drivers who refueled at the affected pump later noticed problems with their vehicles and reported them to the station and the Korea Petroleum Quality and Distribution Authority.

Mixed fuel can cause reduced engine power, unusual noise and engine shutdown while a vehicle is moving. The Korea Transportation Safety Authority says starting a vehicle after it receives the wrong fuel can spread it throughout the vehicle, potentially damaging the engine and leaving the car unable to operate.

The station has so far identified roughly 180 affected vehicles. Saha District officials said they plan to impose administrative action based on the results of the petroleum authority’s investigation.