How does contamination in fuel occur?

Learn about the causes and potential impact of fuel contamination on your Ford's engine and fuel system, and understand warranty coverage for related repairs.

Fuel contamination, including the presence of water or other contaminants, significantly degrades fuel quality and can lead to serious driveability issues, or even failure of your vehicle's engine and fuel system. It is important to note that repairs required as a direct result of fuel contamination are typically not covered by your Ford New Vehicle Warranty, although they may potentially be covered by your Motor Vehicle Insurance policy.

Contamination can occur accidentally, such as water entering fuel station tanks after flooding or poor quality fuel delivery. It can also happen naturally over time as fuel ages. For diesel fuel, prolonged periods of inactivity can even lead to bacterial or algae growth. Modern diesel engines, with their advanced injection systems, are particularly sensitive to fuel quality and lubricity.

Contaminants like dust and debris, even particles as small as 1 micron, can bypass fuel filters and cause critical components like injectors to stick open, potentially flooding the engine and leading to failure. Maintaining high fuel quality is essential for long engine life and reliable performance for both petrol and diesel vehicles.

Your authorized Ford dealership possesses the technical expertise to diagnose fuel system concerns and determine the cause of damage. If it is confirmed that fuel contamination or water in the fuel is the cause, the associated repair costs will not be covered under the vehicle's warranty. Regular vehicle use, proper fuel storage when necessary, and routine servicing at a Ford Dealership are recommended steps to help prevent most fuel contamination issues.