On December 9, 2024, a series of breakdowns hit the vehicles of many Norman motorists. The cause? Contaminated fuel distributed by TotalEnergies in twelve service stations in the region. This situation quickly aroused concern and anger among drivers, with some finding themselves stranded after refueling.
Contrary to initial rumors suggesting a reversal between diesel and gasoline, TotalEnergies confirmed that the problem actually came from a water infiltration into fuel tanks. This contamination specifically affected SP95, thus depriving 13 service stations of this type of fuel.
Among the affected establishments are:
- The Halte Graville relay in Le Havre
- The Callouins relay in Ifs
- The Beau Site relay in Caen
- The Bosgouet North relay
- The Tancarville relay
Bad weather singled out
TotalEnergies quickly reacted by explaining the probable origin of this contamination. According to the company, extreme weather conditions from the previous weekend would be in question. Strong winds and heavy rains would have favored the infiltration of water into a gasoline tank at the Normandy refinery.
As soon as the problem was detected, TotalEnergies took measures to stop the distribution of the contaminated fuel. But these precautions were not enough to avoid inconvenience for many motorists who had already refueled with the altered fuel.
This situation reminds us of the importance of carefully monitoring fuel prices and choosing wisely where to refuel, not only for economic reasons but also to ensure the quality of the product.
The anger of motorists faced with the consequences
The drivers affected by this mishap express their frustration and their discontent. Many find themselves in a delicate situation, their vehicles having broken down after traveling several kilometers on the contaminated fuel.
The indignation is all the more intense as certain insurance companies refuse to cover repairs linked to this incident. Motorists thus feel doubly penalized: first by the breakdown itself, then by the potential repair costs.
Faced with this situation, TotalEnergies has set up a dedicated telephone line for affected customers. Affected people can contact 0970 808 651 for information and assistance.
| Consequences for motorists | Shares of TotalEnergies |
|---|---|
| Vehicle breakdowns | Stopping the distribution of contaminated fuel |
| Potential repair costs | Setting up a dedicated telephone line |
| Waste of time and inconvenience | Communication about the origin of the problem |
Towards a resolution and lessons to be learned
This fuel crisis in Normandy raises important questions about the safety and reliability of fuel supply. It highlights the need for oil companies to strengthen their quality control and contamination prevention procedures.
For motorists, this episode reminds us of the importance of remaining vigilant when choosing a service station and of monitoring changes in fuel prices and quality. It also highlights the value of retaining proof of fuel purchase, which can prove valuable in the event of a dispute.
In the future, this experience could lead to the adoption of stricter preventive measures in the oil industry, especially in the face of the challenges posed by climate change and extreme weather conditions. Consumer confidence in TotalEnergies and the industry as a whole will largely depend on how this crisis is managed and the lessons learned from it.
