Cheated at the Pump: Man files complaint

Reported by: Darlene Dorsey
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Updated: 5/01/2012 5:59 pm
SAN ANTONIO - Most of us watch the gas pump to make sure we get what we pay for. What can you do when you feel like you've been overcharged?

Eric Gilbert just pumps a few gallons at time because he says he can't afford to fill up.

"What I need -- to get where I need to go. That's about it. Gas prices are so high," said Gilbert.

Like Gilbert, many wonder if the pumps work correctly or if they are paying too much for the amount of fuel actually going into the tank.

"I have, but I don't know where to report it," Gilbert told us.

Brian Chandler did report it. He said he filled the tank of his wife's 2004 Honda Civic Sunday at a Valero Corner Store, but was charged for more than what the tank holds.

"Know your tank capacity -- and just be aware," Chandler warned others.

He wants others to pay more attention at the pump.

"Just to make sure it's isolated, and not something that is costing 100's or 1000's of folks hard earned money," Chandler said.

Chandler said he won't make anymore stops at the gas station to fuel up.

Valero spokesman Bill Day said technicians checked the pump calibration and it was working correctly. Day suggested the customer check the actual fuel tank size online.

Brian  Chandler also plans to check the Texas Agriculture Department website which monitors inspections and complaints regarding gas stations to make sure consumers are protected.

Eric Gilbert might consider checking the website, but there's something more pressing on his mind. He must wonder constantly if he can he afford to get gasoline.

"I hope i make it. That's really what's going through my mind. I hope I make it," said Gilbert.

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The views expressed here do not necessarily represent those of News 4 WOAI (WOAI.com)

MCampaRamos - 5/2/2012 6:59 AM
0 Votes
You are not hearing thee man charlie50. Its not about thee road condition its about thee capacity of the fuel tank! Whats thee matter with you?

charlie50 - 5/2/2012 6:50 AM
0 Votes
I dont see a good way to verify this .mileage isn't always gonna be a constant in a vehicle .road condition's , traffic and speed in route to where ever , a low tire , extra weight , all can change it. the only way I could see checking it by your self would be to have a container that's certified to a known amount .

sdch2012 - 5/1/2012 9:12 PM
1 Vote
A 2004 Honda Civic's gas tank holds 13.2 gallons. The gas light had just come on. I guage my mileage closely and know that I have used approximately 10 1/2-11 gallons when the light comes on. We were charged for 13.69 gallons. You do the math.

Briandl - 5/1/2012 8:58 PM
0 Votes
I'm not saying he's wrong, but you have to double check your tank capacity, in can change from one model year to the next even if 99% of everything else stays the same. Also, you never know exactly what's still left in the tank, could be a lot, could be nothing.

akhenaten - 5/1/2012 8:08 PM
0 Votes
Based on the guy's pic, he doesn't appear to be genius material.

MCampaRamos - 5/1/2012 6:59 PM
1 Vote
MOre capitalists crimes! They hits you at your wallet where it hurte a lot! Its almost like being kickd in the huevos!

MCampaRamos - 5/1/2012 6:57 PM
1 Vote
MOre capitalists crimes!
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