Quality of high-priced gasoline is in question
BY CHRIS MURINO Staff Writer

SOUTH BRUNSWICK- As if gas prices weren't bad enough, now it seems that New Jersey residents can't even be sure that they're getting the quality of gas that they are paying for.

Middlesex County inspectors have found that peoplemay have been charged for higher quality fuelwhen in actuality, regular gasoline was used in their cars.

"We've gotten complaints over the years," said William Deinzer, the superintendent of MiddlesexCounty'sWeights andMeasures division.

Deinzer said he also has received information fromother gas station owners.He said the other owners could tell if the truck uses the same hose to fill and top off each pump. Also, the way the pump dispenses fuel can be compatible with either premiumor regular fuel.

"They see the tanker truck come in to the station every day," he said.

He also saidMiddlesexCounty Freeholder Christopher Rafano alerted him to the problem, complaining that he believed he was getting lower-octane gasoline at a pump.

Rafano came up with the idea to purchase an octane analyzer, which is what the inspectors use tomake sure the gasoline is pure and free of contaminants.

"Our inspectors go into the field and performthe tests right there," Deinzer said. "The inspectors have suspicions and we check the pumps throughout the year. It's been a godsend for us."

However, although the analyzer doesmake life much easier, Deinzer said that the field tests that are completed by using it would not hold up in the court of law.Because of this, the office also sends the gasoline to laboratories, such as SGS Laboratories in Bayonne to verify the tests.

Gas stations found to be in violationwill be prosecuted.

"We have the Consumer Fraud Act," Deinzer said. "Thiswould be at least a $10,000 fine. They're trying to rob from pocketbooks and we will be able to get it back with the act. Maybe it will deter thema bit."

The state's Weights and Measures law would only result in a $200 fine, so Deinzer is glad they can get the gas stations to pay for their indiscretions with the Consumer Fraud Act.Deinzer said that complaintswould be filed against stations in South Brunswick, North Brunswick, South River and Old Bridge. There is also a pending case involving a station inWoodbridge. The names of the stations cannot be released until the complaints are actually filed and it becomes public record.

The average price for unleaded gasoline in New Jersey is $2.86, according to newjerseygasprices. com, below the U.S. average of $2.98. A year ago at this time, the average price in New Jersey was $2.24.