Shell-branded fuel stations operated by Vivo Energy Kenya are once again under fire as more motorists claim that contaminated fuel has caused severe engine damage.
A latest case involves a motorist who refueled at Shell Links Road in Mombasa, only for the vehicle to begin losing power en route to Voi.
Despite continuing the journey, the car stalled near Kitui, requiring emergency mechanical assistance.
A Kitui-based mechanic conducted a diagnostic test and found severe engine damage, particularly a completely worn-out piston, which he attributed to contaminated fuel.
One of Shell petrol station operated by Vivo Energy. Photo: Nation Source: Facebook
With no alternative, the motorist had the vehicle towed back to Mombasa and lodged a complaint with Vivo Energy Kenya.
Vivo Energy requested a fuel sample for laboratory testing and later informed the motorist that the sample had passed all quality checks.
However, dissatisfied with the response, she instructed her mechanic to conduct a thorough inspection.
Upon dismantling the engine, the mechanic reaffirmed the initial diagnosis, linking the damage to poor-quality fuel.
The motorist claims to have video evidence showing the fuel sample in a mixed and compromised state. Despite presenting this evidence, Vivo Energy reportedly maintained that their tests found no anomalies.
Determined to seek justice, she is now calling for independent testing and has reached out to consumer rights groups for support. Legal action is also being considered.
Makongeni Town, Thika Shell petrol station. Photo: NTV Kenya Source: Facebook
This incident adds to the growing number of complaints from Kenyan motorists about fuel quality.
Recent independent tests have exposed discrepancies in octane levels at various stations.
Notably, automotive content creator Kim JH of Tanuki Garage conducted octane tests across Nairobi, revealing that some premium fuels, including Shell V-Power, underperformed compared to standard fuels.
Following the exposé, oil marketers, including Vivo Energy, dismissed the findings, arguing that independent tests lacked credibility.
Shell Service Station. Photo: Nation Source: Facebook
However, with increasing reports of engine damage linked to fuel quality, consumer advocacy groups are urging the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) to conduct independent and random fuel quality tests nationwide.
As the controversy escalates, lawmakers are also pushing for stricter oversight and tougher penalties for companies found selling substandard fuel.
Motorists, like the one affected at Shell Links Road, continue to demand accountability and compensation for damages incurred.
