# Vehicle fuel contamination and management risks > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/vehicle-fuel-contamination-and-management-risks > Updated: 2026-08-31T16:06:49.000Z. Sources: 12. Developments: 2. Automotive experts and safety organizations have issued guidance regarding fuel management and the risks of contamination. To prevent running out of fuel due to inaccurate range estimates, the American Automobile Association (AAA) suggests refueling when a tank reaches approximately one-quarter capacity. Specific warnings have been issued regarding refueling while tanker trucks are actively discharging fuel into a station’s underground storage tanks. The pressure from incoming fuel can act as a mixer, stirring up accumulated sediment, rust, dust, biological sludge, and condensed water from the bottom of the tanks. Because modern high-pressure fuel systems and injectors are highly sensitive, these suspended contaminants can bypass station filters and cause engine malfunctions or total failure. Repair costs for such damage are estimated between 1,500 and 4,000 euros. To mitigate this risk, experts recommend waiting 45 to 60 minutes after a delivery is completed to allow sediment to settle back to the bottom of the tank. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-31: Fuel contamination risks during gas station tanker deliveries Refueling during fuel tanker deliveries can stir up sediment and water in underground tanks, potentially damaging sensitive modern engines and causing expensive repairs. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/fuel-contamination-risks-during-gas-station-tanker-deliveries ### 2026-08-29: Fueling Best Practices: Avoiding Low Tanks and Contaminated Gas Experts advise refueling when tanks are at one-quarter capacity and avoiding gas stations while tanker trucks are actively unloading to prevent engine damage from sediment. 9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/fueling-best-practices-avoiding-low-tanks-and-contaminated-gas --- Cite as: Vehicle fuel contamination and management risks. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/vehicle-fuel-contamination-and-management-risks