How can we refuel without being “ripped off” and avoid wasting money and damaging the car is a concern of many drivers.
Below are some tips for refueling a car to avoid wasting money that experienced drivers have summarized.
Limit filling the tank
Filling the fuel tank will make the car consume more energy, causing more damage to the car than filling it close to the full tank. In addition, filling the fuel tank in many cases also helps the employees at the gas station “eat” money reasonably.
Many drivers advise against filling the fuel tank to the full. (Photo: iStock)
The reason is to ensure safety, the pump columns always have a reverse fuel suction mechanism to prevent fuel overflow. At that time, the fuel has passed through the meter and the customer still has to pay for the fuel sucked back. Therefore, calculate the amount of fuel to be filled to the correct volume. Do not buy a full fuel tank, as it is easy to be damaged and it also makes the car have to “bear” more weight, causing fuel consumption.
Limit refueling by amount of money
Many people have a habit of refueling with an even amount of money like 100,000 VND, 500,000 VND or 1 million VND for convenience. However, this method of purchase will create favorable conditions for fraudulent behavior at some gas stations, as the “trick” programs on the fuel pump are usually programmed according to the amount of money.
To avoid being “ripped off” when refueling, many drivers advise to buy according to the capacity such as 10 liters, 20 liters… depending on the fuel tank of the car. At that time, the column will pump the correct amount of fuel in liters because this capacity has been regularly inspected and the accuracy rate is almost absolute.
Refuel when it’s cool
According to experts, drivers should refuel in the morning and evening, while limiting refueling at noon. The reason is that fuel has the property of expanding and contracting with temperature. If the temperature is higher, the fuel will expand more and vice versa.
Avoid refueling in the midday sun. (Photo: BI)
Therefore, refueling when it’s cool will be better. Although this difference is not significant, it is worth a try.
Ask the meter to return to “0” before pumping
Although there is a regulation that the meter must return to “0” before refueling, there are some employees who do not comply with it and pour consecutively for many customers. This makes it difficult to monitor and calculate the actual amount of fuel pumped.
Moreover, this often has an error between pumping times so the customer may be the one who suffers. Therefore, ask the employee to return the meter to “0” before pumping.
Always observe the meter carefully when refueling
If not paying attention, the fueling employee may pump less fuel. Therefore, while refueling, the buyer should continuously monitor the meter on the fuel dispenser. This helps you detect signs of fraud in a timely manner.
Pour the right and the same type of fuel
Each car will have a different appropriate type of fuel. Therefore, pouring the right type of fuel for the car has a significant effect on energy saving. If the wrong type is poured, the fuel will not burn completely and create residues in the car, causing the car to consume more power and fuel.
Choose reputable gas stations
Buyers should refuel at familiar and reputable gas stations. At these addresses, the fuel quality is guaranteed, the measurement system meets the standards, there are fuel pump procedures, and the amount is clearly posted on LED or LCD screens on the fuel dispenser.
Do not wait for the fuel gauge to reach the red mark before refueling
To prolong the life of the car, do not wait for the fuel gauge to reach the red mark before refueling. Because, some engines are designed to run with the condition of being always immersed in fuel. Therefore, fuel depletion can easily cause air to enter, causing damage.
According to VTC.vn