What was supposed to be a quick top-off at an East El Paso Circle K turned into a costly headache for some drivers, who say their cars started acting up and, in a few cases, wound up needing major repairs after a fuel delivery mix-up at the pump. Motorists who believed they were buying premium gasoline later reported stalling, heavy smoke, and other damage. One driver who paid about $60 for a fill-up was later handed a repair estimate of roughly $1,700.
According to KVIA, a Circle K spokesperson said a third-party supplier accidentally delivered diesel into a premium gas storage tank at the store at 1239 N. Zaragoza Rd. The company said it immediately shut down the affected pumps, emptied and cleaned the tank, and then resupplied it before turning the pumps back on. Customers with concerns were directed to the chain’s customer service line and to store contact details on Circle K.
As reported by CBS News Texas, several motorists later discovered they had unknowingly pumped diesel into gasoline engines and then ran into stalled cars and other problems. CBS also noted one driver who paid about $60 for fuel and was hit with a repair estimate close to $1,700.
How these mix-ups happen
Fuel delivery mistakes, often called “cross drops,” happen when a tanker unloads the wrong product into an underground storage tank during a delivery. Similar cross-drop incidents involving Circle K and other brands have been reported in different parts of the country, and past cases have left drivers staring at expensive repair bills, as shown in national coverage of comparable events. That track record makes clear that a single delivery error can ripple out to affect dozens of vehicles in a hurry.
What to do if you filled up
If you think you got the wrong fuel, the guidance is simple and not especially fun: do not keep driving. Turn off the engine and call for a tow so a technician can drain and flush the tank and fuel lines. Automotive guides and repair shops, along with other resources for motorists, recommend a prompt drain, filter replacement, and full system flush to limit damage. Driving on contaminated fuel risks sending it through injectors and catalytic converters, which can make an already bad day much worse. Keep your receipt, take photos of any symptoms, and get written repair estimates before you file a claim.
Claims and next steps
Circle K told KVIA it is working with customers on claims for vehicles affected by the incident at the Zaragoza Road location. Drivers are urged to gather repair estimates, photos, and fuel receipts to support any claim with the company and with their insurance provider. If you are unsure what is covered, consumer and insurance guides recommend calling your insurer or roadside assistance program for guidance on towing and repairs…