Bio-diesel fuels complaints from angry drivers

Mar 5 2008 By Gurdip Thandi, Birmingham Mail

MOTORISTS are being warned that a green fuel may not be so friendly for their vehicles.

Trading Standards officers in Staffordshire have received a string of calls from angry motorists facing huge repair bills after filling up with bio-diesel made from vegetable oil.

In some instances the diesel has turned to a thick gel, blocking fuel lines and filters.

Bio-diesel is becoming more widely available, and new green regulations mean all fuel used for road transport will have to contain a five per cent "bio-fuel component" from April.

Any fuel containing more than five per cent bio-content should have a sign displayed on the pump saying: "Not suitable for all vehicles - consult vehicle manufacture before use."

The instances in Staffordshire where motorists have experienced problems have involved vehicles filled-up with pure bio-fuel or a mix with a far higher bio-fuel content than five per cent.

They include:

* A 12 month old Peugeot 406 that needed £4,000 of repairs after it ground to a halt. The bio-diesel had turned to a gel and clogged the fuel pump and injectors. The entire fuel system had to be flushed out.

* The fuel tank, fuel lines and fuel pump had to be replaced on a six month old Fiat Dublo after bio-diesel turned to gel.

* A Vauxhall Combo van broke down shortly after being filled with bio diesel that congealed. The owner, a self-employed plasterer, lost £500 in trade and paid £90 to get the fuel lines flushed and filter replaced

* A businessman whose R-reg Ford Transit broke down after running for five miles on bio-diesel. The cost was £490 for repairs and £750 lost earnings

Coun Carol Dean, cabinet member for safer and stronger communities, said: "It's great that people are trying to play their part in reducing climate changing carbon emissions by using more environmentally friendly fuels, but it is important you investigate the feasibility for your vehicle fully before you fill up."