Say “No” to Filling Up Your Gas Tank
Additionally, filling up to the brim helps gas stations make more money.
The pumps at gas stations use automatic nozzles with a vacuum mechanism. If the gas is filled to the brim and touches the tip of the nozzle, it will automatically stop pumping to prevent spillage. This automatic shut-off means you lose a small amount of gas without realizing it.
Don’t Ask for a Specific Amount of Money’s Worth of Gas
Instead of asking for a certain amount of money’s worth of gas, such as 30,000 or 50,000 VND, you should fill up by the liter. Just wait until your car’s gas gauge reaches the red line and then get it refueled.
Fill Up with the Right Type of Gas
Different cars require different types of gas. For example, scooters should use 95-octane gas, while manual transmission cars use 92-octane gas. Using the right type of gas for your vehicle will help it save energy. If you don’t use the right type, the gas won’t burn completely and will leave deposits in your engine, causing it to use more power and gas.
Be Wary of Attendant Tricks
Before pumping gas, pay attention to the number the attendant presses on the machine. In some cases, attendants don’t reset the pump to zero, so you end up paying for someone else’s gas. Be cautious and choose gas stations where many taxi drivers fill up, as they are more experienced and know which stations are reliable.
Compare Prices Between Fill-Ups
Compare prices between fill-ups to ensure you’re getting a fair deal. If you spend 45,000 VND and almost fill your tank one time, but the next time you don’t get as much gas for the same amount, something might be amiss.
Tips for Filling Up to Prolong Your Car’s Life
- Avoid filling up when it’s too hot: It’s best to fill up in the morning or evening when it’s cooler, as gas evaporates quickly in high temperatures. This way, you get more gas for your money and save your car’s engine.
- Turn off your engine when filling up: When you fill up, the gas from the pump displaces the air and vapor in your tank. If your engine is running, it can transmit heat to the powertrain, and sparks from the engine can ignite the vapors, causing an explosion. Always turn off your engine when filling up.
- Ensure the pump is reset to zero before filling up: Always check the display on the gas pump to ensure it’s reset to zero before the attendant starts pumping. Some attendants don’t reset it, and you end up paying for someone else’s gas.
- Don’t wait until your tank is nearly empty: Running an automobile with a nearly empty tank can damage the engine and related systems. Some automobile engines are designed to run with a constant supply of fuel, so running out of gas can allow air into the system, causing damage.