Mobil Reassures Diesel Customers

25 May 2001

Mobil spokesperson Kimberley Allan tonight reassured Mobil customers that it was safe to keep using diesel fuel supplied to the company from the Marsden Point refinery provided they took simple precautions.

Ms Allan’s reassurance followed an announcement from the refinery today that recent batches of diesel were likely to block diesel fuel filters and therefore cause engines to run irregularly, lose power and eventually stop through fuel starvation.

She said the problem was beyond Mobil’s control but the company wanted to make sure that its customers were fully aware of the problem so they could take appropriate precautions - particularly ensuring that diesel fuel filters were replaced as required.

“The main point I want to emphasise is that there is no immediate safety issue involved for most diesel users and that petrol is entirely unaffected by the problem,” Ms Allan said.

“The problem appears to be caused by a substance added at the refinery to aid diesel flow in colder temperatures. The only adverse effect is its tendency to block diesel fuel filters. In all other respects, the diesel meets normal standards.

“If diesel users notice unusual symptoms, they should immediately see their mechanic and get the filter changed.

“Naturally, those people using diesel at sea, in remote locations or for vital applications should be particularly vigilant. As a precaution, Mobil has temporarily closed its unattended marine diesel sites until appropriate advisory signs can be put in place.”

Ms Allan said the major oil companies and the refinery were working closely together to remedy the situation as quickly as they could and would do everything reasonably possible to ensure customers were not inconvenienced in the meantime.

She said that Mobil would be compensating Mobil customers for the cost of filters clogged by the affected diesel fuel and that any customer with any questions about compensation or other matters should call the company’s inquiry line on 0800 808 666.

ENDS

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