BP stops sales of upper gas grades in Chicago area

WHITING, Ind. (AP) — BP said Thursday that it fixed a problem at its Whiting, Ind. refinery that led to a three-state fuel recall but has temporarily halted selling premium and midgrade gasoline in the Chicago area.

BP spokesman Scott Dean said the refinery about 20 miles southeast of Chicago has returned to normal production but higher grades won't be sold in the area pending further tests.

He also said fuel from a Milwaukee terminal center that distributed some of the recalled fuel is back within normal specifications.

Dean said BP has heard from more than 10,000 customers possibly needing repairs because of the gas, and the oil company has begun paying claims. He said he didn't know yet the number of claims paid or their dollar value.