Mix-up at Innisfil gas station causes costly repairs to multiple vehicles
An unfortunate mix-up at an Innisfil gas station led to headaches for drivers after many wound up with diesel in their tanks rather than gasoline.
And it's not just motorists upset by the incident.
The Alcona Gas Variety and Car Wash owner where the mix-up happened is "anguished" by the experience.
"It's not something we have done. It is something that has been done to us and our customers," said owner Rod Boynton.
Boynton said the mistake happened Friday night at the business on Innisfil Beach Road.
"I can't imagine what's it's like for our customers to go through. It's their cars. It's their mobility. They haven't had their cars for a number of days. It's a huge interruption to everyone's lives," Boynton said.
Boynton has owned the Alcona gas station for 26 years.
He said it appears the delivery person accidentally put diesel fuel in the regular fuel tanks.
It's not known how many vehicles were affected by the mix-up. Or if any other gas stations had the same issue.
"It's our job now to support our customers and ensure they get compensated because that's what we have done for 26 years, and that's what we are going to continue to do to have their backs," he stated.
COSTLY REPAIRS
At least 12 affected vehicles were brought into the Auto Ranch garage just down the road.
Thomas Reddick owns the garage and said the vehicles could be repaired.
Reddick said drivers would quickly notice a difference with diesel in their tanks. "The car would buck and hesitate. Lots of smoke would come out the exhaust, and it wouldn't start after you turn it off."
He said to fix the issue they drain the fuel tank, flush the system, change the oil, and "usually we have to put new spark plugs in, and everything is fine."
Reddick said the repairs could range from $500 to $1,500 depending on the vehicle.
While the gas station is still investigating and promising to make things right, Boynton said he understands how people must feel.
"People get frustrated and emotional, and I don't blame them one bit. I would be very frustrated too if it was me, and we're going to ensure we have everybody's back, and we're not going to drop the ball."
After closing up shop for a couple of days following the incident, the gas station is back open for business.
If any of the vehicle owners affected have questions, they are encouraged to contact the gas station staff directly
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Doctors ask Liberal government to reconsider capital gains tax change
The Canadian Medical Association is asking the federal government to reconsider its proposed changes to capital gains taxation, arguing it will affect doctors' retirement savings.
Keeping these exotic pets is 'cruel' and 'dangerous,' Canadian animal advocates say
Canadian pet owners are finding companionship beyond dogs and cats. Tigers, alligators, scorpions and tarantulas are among some of the exotic pets they are keeping in private homes, which pose risks to public safety and animal welfare, advocates say.
Prince William and wife Kate thank public for birthday messages for son Louis
Prince William and his wife Kate thanked the public for their messages which had been sent to mark the sixth birthday of their youngest son Louis on Tuesday.
She was the closest she'd ever been to meeting her biological father. Then life dealt her a blow
Anne Marie Cavner was the closest she'd ever been to meeting her biological father, but then life dealt her a blow. From an unexpected loss to a host of new relationships, a DNA test changed her life, and she doesn't regret a thing.
How quietly promised law changes in the 2024 federal budget could impact your day-to-day life
The 2024 federal budget released last week includes numerous big spending promises that have garnered headlines. But, tucked into the 416-page document are also series of smaller items, such as promising to amend the law regarding infant formula and to force banks to label government rebates, that you may have missed.
Fire engulfs old Edmonton municipal airport hangar
A historical hangar at the former Edmonton municipal airport beside the NAIT main campus was on fire Monday night.
RCMP uncovers plot to sell drones and equipment to Libya
The RCMP says it has uncovered a ploy to sell Chinese drones and military equipment to Libya illegally.
Which foods have the most plastics? You may be surprised
'How much plastic will you have for dinner, sir? And you, ma'am?' While that may seem like a line from a satirical skit on Saturday Night Live, research is showing it's much too close to reality.
'Catch-and-kill' strategy to be a focus as testimony resumes in Trump hush money case
A veteran tabloid publisher was expected to return to the witness stand Tuesday in Donald Trump's historic hush money trial.