The problem is occurring in both petrol and diesel cars and can cost drivers thousands of dollars.  

A spokeswoman from John McDermott Automotive Services in Pambula said they have even noticed a spike in cases in the past couple of weeks. 

“The problem is that there is no way a driver can know whether they are filling their tank with contaminated petrol,” she said. “It is really just bad luck and all people can do is take it to a mechanic straight away if they notice problems after filling up, this could minimise the damage.” 

John Stylianou, manager of Tarra Motors in Bega, said they are doing a lot of fuel contamination repairs, mostly on diesel cars. 

“Fixing something like this is not a small cost, depending on the damage done it can cost up to $10,000,” Mr Stylianou said. 

“We’re talking about the kind of money that most people just don’t have lying around.”

Mr Stylianou said there is really nothing that individuals can do to prevent filling up with contaminated fuel, but there is something drivers can do to avoid losing huge sums of money. 

“There are some petrol stations that will cover the cost of damages to your car if you can prove that you bought the petrol at their station.”

He recommends everyone keeps their receipts when they buy petrol. 

“This way, although you will have to pay the costs up front there is a chance you will be reimbursed.”