Denver, Colorado: Colorado tainted gas has triggered a major consumer crisis across the Denver metro area, leaving hundreds of drivers with stalled vehicles, engine damage, and repair bills running into thousands of dollars. State regulators have confirmed that contaminated gasoline—caused by diesel mixing with unleaded fuel—was unknowingly sold at multiple gas stations, prompting more than 200 official complaints and growing demands for reimbursement.
According to state officials, unleaded gasoline contaminated with diesel fuel was mistakenly delivered to multiple gas stations across the Denver metro region, impacting motorists who unknowingly filled their tanks with the tainted fuel. The incident has now sparked widespread complaints, investigations, and demands for reimbursement.
Colorado Tainted Gas Complaints Cross 200, Says State Regulator
The Colorado Division of Oil and Public Safety confirmed it has received more than 200 complaints from affected drivers. Many reported sudden engine problems shortly after refueling, including sputtering, stalling, loss of power, and complete vehicle shutdowns.
State officials say the contamination occurred during the fuel delivery process, when diesel fuel was mixed into unleaded gasoline, making it unsuitable for standard gasoline-powered vehicles.
Multiple Gas Stations Affected Across Denver Metro
Investigators believe at least 13 gas stations across the region dispensed the contaminated fuel. Several of the affected locations are operated by King Soopers, with additional reports involving outlets operated by Costco and Murphy Express.
Cities impacted include Aurora, Broomfield, Castle Rock, Parker, Longmont, and surrounding Denver suburbs.
Man Faces $3,000+ Repair Bill Due to Colorado Tainted Gas
One of the affected motorists, Lance Strait, said his vehicle suffered severe damage after he refueled at a King Soopers gas station in Parker. His repair costs have already exceeded $3,000, and the car remains unusable.
Strait is now calling on fuel suppliers and retailers to take responsibility and reimburse customers for repair expenses, towing costs, and rental vehicles.
“People trusted that they were putting safe fuel into their cars,” Strait said. “Now many are stuck with massive repair bills through no fault of their own.”
Who Is Responsible for Colorado Tainted Gas?
While the investigation is ongoing, fuel for several of the affected stations was reportedly supplied by Sinclair. Both retailers and suppliers have acknowledged the issue, but many customers say the reimbursement process remains unclear and slow.
State officials have advised impacted drivers to:
- Contact the gas station where they purchased fuel
- Save receipts and repair invoices
- Document vehicle damage and towing costs
Mechanics Warn of Serious Engine Damage
Automotive experts say diesel contamination in gasoline vehicles can lead to extensive mechanical repairs, including:
- Fuel tank draining and flushing
- Replacement of fuel injectors
- Fuel pump repairs
- Sensor and emissions system damage
In severe cases, total repair costs can reach thousands of dollars, especially for newer vehicles.
Colorado Tainted Gas: What Drivers Should Do Now
Drivers who believe they were affected by Colorado tainted gas are urged to act quickly. State officials recommend contacting the gas station where the fuel was purchased and keeping all receipts, repair invoices, and towing records. Filing a formal complaint with the Colorado Division of Oil and Public Safety is also advised, as it helps regulators track the scope of the contamination and strengthens reimbursement claims.
Automotive experts warn that continuing to drive with contaminated fuel can worsen engine damage. Even short-distance driving may impact fuel injectors, sensors, and emissions systems. Several affected motorists have reported repair estimates exceeding $3,000, while others are still waiting for inspections.
Consumer advocates say a coordinated reimbursement plan is essential to ensure that drivers impacted by Colorado tainted gas are not forced to pay for damages caused by fuel distribution errors.
List of Petrol Pumps Linked to the Colorado Tainted Gas Incident
- 14967 Candelas Pkwy., Arvada, CO
- 25701 E Smoky Hill Rd., Aurora, CO
- 17000 E Iliff Ave., Aurora, CO
- 3050 S Peoria St., Aurora, CO
- 1045 S 1st St., Bennett, CO
- 12167 Sheridan Blvd., Broomfield, CO
- 2355 W 136th Ave., Broomfield, CO
- 7284 Lagae Rd., Castle Pines, CO
- 750 N Ridge Rd., Castle Rock, CO
- 5125 W Florida Ave., Denver, CO
- 1611 Pace St., Longmont, CO
- 12959 S Parker Rd., Parker, CO
- 17761 Cottonwood Dr., Parker, CO
Note: Most of the affected petrol pumps are operated by King Soopers. In addition, at least one Costco fuel station and one Murphy Express outlet in the Denver-area suburbs were also reported to have received contaminated fuel deliveries.
Growing Pressure for Customer Compensation
As complaints continue to rise, affected motorists are urging retailers and oil companies to establish a clear and fast reimbursement program. Consumer advocates warn that delays could lead to legal action if customers are forced to pay out of pocket for damages caused by contaminated fuel.
State regulators say they will continue monitoring the situation and have urged any additional affected drivers to file formal complaints immediately.