[Biodiesel News] How will biodiesel fuel affect your vehicle warranty?

How will biodiesel fuel affect your vehicle warranty?

KTVB - Boise,ID,USA

BOISE -- Biodiesel is now being sold at 11 Treasure Valley gas stations, but that has raised questions about how it may affect your vehicle’s warranty. ...

 

 

BOISE -- Biodiesel is now being sold at 11 Treasure Valley gas stations, but that has raised questions about how it may affect your vehicle’s warranty.

 

Biodiesel is now available at 11 Treasure Valley Stinker Stations.

 

Experts NewsChannel 7 spoke to say there's no need to worry.

 

We found out that owner's manuals like one from our satellite truck warn people that using biodiesel may void their manufacturer’s warranty.

 

It reads, " It is acceptable to use diesel fuel containing up to five percent biodiesel. Higher concentration is not recommended and could damage your fuel system and engine. Such damage would not be covered by your warranty."

 

The biodiesel now available at 11 southwest Idaho Stinker Stations is a ten percent biodiesel mix.

 

However, University of Idaho biodiesel researcher Dr. Jon Van Gerpen says biodiesel would not void your warranty, unless the fuel was of poor quality.

 

“The warranty covers the parts and the workmanship of the engines, when they use a fuel it doesn't matter whether it's diesel or biodiesel that cause some damage to the engine. The engine manufacturer's not going to accept responsibility for that. That's the responsibility of the fuel supplier, that's and why it's important you use a good quality fuel,” said Van Gerpen.

 

Van Gerpen also says that part of the reason the warranty statements even mention biodiesel is because it's so new.

 

“As soon as the automotive and engine companies gain more experience with higher blends, with higher biodiesel, I’m sure that they'll change the language in their owner’s manuals,” said Van Gerpen.

 

NewsChannel 7 called several auto dealerships in the area, but only Dennis Dillon returned our call. They said they're checking with the manufacturer for their position on biodiesel in GMC vehicles.

 

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Posted by Vince to Biodiesel News at 9/20/2006 05:35:00 AM