1. Does the Tennessee Department of Agriculture conduct tests for quality on Motor Fuel ?

Yes, the department conducts routine inspections and pulls random samples for lab analysis any establishment that conveys motor fuel for sale in the state on an annual basis.

2. Can the Department of Agriculture help me if I think I have received “bad” or contaminated fuel?

Yes, Regulatory Services Personnel will investigate all consumer complaints on motor fuel quality or quantity.  However, the consumer can aid in this process by contacting the department as soon as possible after the purchase so we may visually inspect and pull a sample for lab analysis while the product is still available. It is very helpful if the consumer can identify the type and grade of product purchased along with the pump number the fuel was dispensed from.  A receipt of the purchase can be very helpful and normally contains this information.

3. Can the Department of Agriculture help me recover any associated expenses incurred as a result of purchasing contaminated fuel?

No. You will receive a copy of the lab analysis on the sample that you may use to support your claims.

4. Where can I find information on the  Department of Agriculture Petroleum Quality program?

Go to the following link: http://www.state.tn.us/agriculture/ and then click on Regulatory Services on the left hand tool bar. Then click on Petroleum Quality. You have access to the Annual Report on the Quality of Kerosene and Motor Fuel in Tennessee.  In this report there is much information concerning all aspects of the program. You can access the Kerosene and Motor Fuel Regulations here also.

5. How do I file a consumer complaint?

Call 1-800 628 – 2631 or 1-800 octane1.  This number is printed on all the approval stickers you will find on  retail fuel dispensing devices.