Motor fuels
Verify gasoline quality through inspections and investigations
The Motor Fuels Program regulates the sale and quality of motor fuels in Louisiana. The program includes:
A Motor Fuels Laboratory whose primary function is to validate that all fuels sold in the state meet certain octane ratings, chemical and/or physical requirements established by Louisiana laws and regulations
LDAF inspectors who perform statewide inspections at gas stations at least once a year to ensure that consumers are getting what they pay for
Investigations of consumer complaints
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If you think the motor fuel you bought is contaminated by water or particulate matter, let us know, and we'll investigate.
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Can gas be watered down?
There is no tolerance for water in gasoline. Locations cannot “water down” gasoline.
Can a gas can hold more than 5 gallons of fuel?
Yes, a gas can hold more than 5 gallons of fuel.
Does LDAF test all motor fuel dispensers in the state?
LDAF’s Motor Fuels Program inspectors test fuel dispensing devices from every corner of the state. We inspect over 73,000 retail motor fuels devices at over 3,100 locations annually. All devices are inspected on an annual basis.
How often do retail motor fuel devices fail inspection?
On average, over 95 percent of retail motor fuels devices pass all inspection criteria on the first inspection every year. For the roughly 5 percent who do not pass, their failure can be attributed to numerous reasons, including but not limited to calibration, customer displays, leaks, etc…
Who investigates consumer complaints for retail motor fuels devices and fuel quality?
LDAF Weights and Measures receives and investigates an average of 350 to 400 consumer complaints annually on retail motor fuels devices. All complaints received are investigated by LDAF Weights and Measures Inspectors.
How does the LDAF determine if the fuel being sold to the consumer meets the State and Federal requirements?
LDAF has an in-house Motor Fuels Laboratory that performs quality analysis on fuel sold throughout our state. The testing determines if a motor fuel is contaminated with water, as well as verifies fuel quality standards are met.
Who enforces fuel quality requirements in Louisiana?
The Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry’s Weights and Measures Division enforces regulations that are in place to ensure the fuel meets all state and federal requirements.
What happens if the department finds fuel that does not meet requirements?
If any gasoline is found to not meet the requirements set forth by our Louisiana Weights and Measures rules and regulations, it is red-tagged, and the sale of the product is stopped.
How do consumers know if the oil they are buying is the viscosity it is labeled as?
LDAF Weights and Measures samples and test motor oil for proper viscosity labeling from both retail outlets and automotive service centers.
What are some tips for consumers to protect themselves when purchasing motor fuels?
Pay with a credit card or pay cash inside and print and keep your receipt.
Be aware of what fuel your vehicle is capable of running. This can usually be found in your vehicle’s owner’s manual.
Pay attention to the signage to verify you are putting the correct fuel in your vehicle.
Ask store personnel for clarification if you are not sure what is being offered for sale at the location.
Report any fuel quality issues to our fuel hotline as quickly as possible.
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