Fuel treated to address faulty gauge readings

Mobil Oil Mariana Islands Inc. yesterday assured motorists that its regular unleaded gasoline are being treated to prevent faulty fuel gauge readings on some vehicle makes and models.

Mobil said it has secured additives to address the high level of sulfur in its regular unleaded gasoline, which had resulted in complaints of faulty fuel gauge readings on certain vehicles. The additive does not affect engine performance, according to Mobil.

“When we discovered this problem, we promptly stopped delivering regular unleaded gasoline to our service stations and replaced it with premium unleaded gasoline to reduce the likelihood that our customers would experience problems with their fuel gauges,” said Cecile Bamba Suda, Mobil’s public affairs manager.

She said that, although elevated sulfur levels led to faulty fuel gauge readings in certain vehicles, the problem did not affect vehicle performance and safety. She said the fuel supply was compliant with regulated standards at all times.

“Fuel level sensors in vehicle gasoline tanks rely on the conductivity of a metal strip. Some automobile manufacturers use a ‘silver strip.’ This particular strip can be very sensitive to the presence of free sulfur which reacts with the silver and may affect the operation of the sensor so that the fuel gauge no longer indicates the correct level of gasoline in the tank,” Suda explained.

Reports said there were motorists who experienced the problem, whose vehicles unexpectedly ran out of fuel.

Mobil said it sourced out the additive from Singapore. “This is now being added to our regular unleaded gasoline and our Saipan terminal has begun to distribute regular unleaded gasoline with this additive in the market.”

Shell Marianas has also procured additives for its regular unleaded gasoline, which would be added to the older stock. Additionally, the company reportedly said it has new fuel stock that does not cause faulty fuel gauge readings.

Mobil customers experiencing faulty fuel gauge readings may report the problem at 483-3367.

“We reiterate that if motorists are experiencing such problems or are concerned about their vehicle’s fuel gauge, we suggest they consult their vehicle service provider at the earliest opportunity. In the meantime, motorists should monitor their fuel usage and mileage traveled, including keeping their fuel tank at adequate levels to avoid the inconvenience of running out of gasoline,” Suda said.