Editor,
My husband Rex and I have five boys, and I find it interesting that I have two boys who made the same mistake even though they are 10 years apart.
My husband has been teaching our 13-year-old son the importance of helping out and being a gentleman. Rex has shown him how to pump gas at numerous gas stations for me, since I often dress up for work in high heels. My son has pumped the gas at least 10 times at different stations during the past three months, and two weeks ago we went to a station and he mistakenly chose the incorrect pump and put diesel fuel in my car. I unknowingly drove away to have my car start choking and sputtering to finally stop and die in the middle of the road. The tow cost $160 to an automechanic who quoted to fix my car for a total of $350, which was the last of five calls I made getting quotes while stranded in my car.
Our 23-year-old son had just made the same mistake a few months earlier. Knowing what he paid, I knew the first quote of $872 was way too high. Four places did not even have the equipment to complete the job. I then had to rent a car for two days, which totaled $110.
The diesel gas pump had a black handle that many people have told me is very confusing. Most of the diesel pumps are green. I had one friend tell me it ruined her engine. Save $620 and teach your children the dangers of diesel!
Melissa St. John, Geist
