Wednesday, May 7, 2008

Biofuel in diesel 'wrecks engines'

Thousands of motorists could face huge repair bills following complaints that biofuels introduced by the Government can cause jellyfish-like blobs that destroy engines.

Since April 15, all petrol and diesel sold on forecourts has had to contain 2.5% biofuel, which is typically made from crops and vegetables.

But, experts say the fuel is having a crippling effect on some vehicles, particularly those using diesel because not all garage tanks have been properly cleaned.

It means bacteria are getting into the fuel and reacting with its vegetable and cereal base, producing 'blobby' lumps that can clog filters increase engine wear and destroy pipes and seals.

Since the biofuel content was introduced, garages claim to have taken an increasing number of complaints from motorists who have unwittingly introduced the contamination into their fuel tanks.

Garages are now being warned that they must flush out their fuel tanks regularly to prevent problems.

A Department for Transport spokesman said 'strict quality standards' were in place for biofuels but 'there needs to be good housekeeping at fuel stations'. (Daily Mail: May 6).

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