Quick question: Re Shell gas and screwed-up gas gauge

[Maddy McCall]

I am headed out to get my gas gauge repaired at Shell's expense, since their high-sulfur gas screwed it up in May.(This was big news--Shell has had to replace gauges in over 50,000 cars.)

The repair has been approved, and Shell's adjustor is supposed to meet me there. If he/she asks me to sign anything stating that the repair of the gauge ends Shell's liablity in the problem, what do I do?

I would be hesitant to sign because many people are having problems with their car engines because of the gas--especially their fuel injectors.

I am afraid that if I don't sign off, Shell won't cover the gauge. But if I do sign off and a new problem presents itself, I won't be able to turn to Shell to repair it.

Any advice from any legal minds (or anyone) out there?

[TexasProgresive]

1. This came up on Car Talk

last week I think. Their answer was good -but I can't remember the details since it I don't have the problem. The sulfur that destroyed your gas gauge could also cause other problems down the road.

email them at http://www.cartalk.com/email/email.html

Good luck - BTW- I seem to remember that high sulfur fuel can cause damage to catalytic converters, and those aren't chump change.

[HamstersFromHell]

2. Bring your pen, and a friend...

More than likely, they will want you to sign off on the repair. However, read the release carefully, if it relieves Shell of any further liability, refuse to sign unless you are allowed to amend it to release them from *only* further liability regarding the gas gauge. You do have a right to amend the agreement, just as they do, likewise you both have a right of refusal if it's not agreeable. If Shell is being honest about it, their rep. won't have any problem with allowing you to amend the release.

If they refuse to allow it to be amended, write "refused" across it and a note explaining why, and keep a copy...and inform the agent your lawyer will be in contact with them. Often this will get his attention enough that he'll allow it to be amended to your satisfaction.

Good luck!

Hammies!

[Beware the Beast Man]

3. My wife sent an angry e-mail to Shell regarding her faulty gauge

And so far, they haven't exactly stumbled over each other to reply...

[Magrittes Pipe]

4. Do NOT sign anything waiving Shell's responsibility.

Actually, if Shell is negligent, you could still demand payment (even if you did sign a waiver), but it's a damn sight harder.

You should get the fuel gauge fixed privately (yeah, I know that means you've gotta pay out-of-pocket) and bill Shell for your expenses.