A Few Small Habits Can Make Every Stop Better
A gas station might seem like one of the simplest places to visit, but there's more to a quick fuel stop than pulling up to a pump and filling your tank. Between safety rules, shared equipment, busy parking lots, and people trying to get on with their day, a few everyday habits can make the experience frustrating or even dangerous. You don't have to memorize a long list of rules to be a considerate customer, but paying attention to your surroundings certainly helps.
1. Using Your Phone While Pumping Gas
If you find yourself checking Facebook or texting while you're filling up your gas tank, you could be ignoring something that might happen around you. It is unlikely that your cell phone will ignite gasoline, but you should still be mindful of what you're doing and read all signs posted around the fueling area. Save the scrolling for when you're safely parked away from the pumps.
2. Leaving Your Engine Running While Refueling
It's tempting to leave the engine running when the weather is freezing or sweltering, especially if you're only buying a few gallons. There is no reason to leave your car idling while you're filling it with gas, and doing so also produces exhaust fumes. Turn your car off when instructed to do so at your gas station, and once you're done filling up, turn it back on.
3. Lighting Fires Near the Pumps
Lighting a fire anywhere near fuel dispensers is a serious safety mistake, even if you believe you're standing far enough away. Gasoline vapors can ignite, and a lit cigarette or other open flame creates an unnecessary source of ignition. Most stations clearly prohibit smoking near fueling areas, so there's no reason to test the boundaries.
4. Walking Away While Your Car Is Being Fueled
You might think it's not a big deal to walk into the convenience store and come back out to your car. It's better to stay near your car while you're filling it up. You never know when something might happen that could cause fuel to spill or leak from your vehicle.
5. Topping Off Your Gas Tank
Many people don't realize that when the pump clicks off, your tank is filled to capacity. People like to squeeze out that last bit of gas into their tanks. When you're overfilling your car, you could spill gas or allow fuel to enter parts of the vehicle where it shouldn't go. Not only does this leave a mess, but it's also harmful to the environment.
6. Pulling Away With the Nozzle Still in Your Car
Driving away with the nozzle still in your car can cause severe damage to your vehicle and the gas station. This can result in a gas spill that needs to be addressed right away. Always remember to return the nozzle to its holder and close your gas door, if applicable.
7. Blocking a Pump After You're Finished
Once you've finished fueling, move your vehicle if you're planning to spend time inside the store and another pump is available to use. Lingering at the dispenser while you check your receipts, reorganize your wallet, or decide what snack to buy can hold up drivers who are waiting. It's especially frustrating at busy stations where every open pump matters.
8. Parking Across Multiple Spaces
Gas station parking lots can be tight, and taking up two spaces makes things even harder for everyone else. You might be trying to protect your car from door dings, but other customers still need room to park, get inside, and move safely through the lot. Pull between the lines whenever possible, and avoid occupying accessible spaces or blocking designated access aisles.
9. Letting Children Wander Around the Pumps
Having your kids walk around the gas station while you're filling your car is not recommended. There are many moving vehicles and people around you at any given time. If you let your child wander around, they may not see what's going on around them. Always follow the signs at a gas station and keep your kids close to you.
10. Ignoring Spills
If you notice gasoline on the ground or a fuel spill near your vehicle, don't simply step around it and carry on. Fuel spills can create fire and environmental hazards, and the appropriate response depends on the size and location of the spill. Avoid touching the liquid or trying to clean up a significant spill yourself, and notify station staff immediately from a safe location. If there's a major spill or an immediate danger, move away and contact emergency services.
11. Using the Wrong Fuel
Always make sure you're putting the correct fuel in your car. If you fill your car with the wrong fuel, you could potentially damage it. Make sure you're selecting the correct nozzle when filling your car. Contact roadside assistance or a qualified mechanic for instructions on what to do next.
12. Cutting in Line at the Air Pump
The air compressor can get busy if everyone decides to use it on the same day. Make sure you're not crowding someone who's already trying to fill their tires. Move your car so you're not blocking traffic, and have your tire pressure information ready to enter into the machine.
13. Leaving Trash on the Ground
Receipts, snack wrappers, empty cups, and paper towels don't belong beside the pump or in the parking lot. Station employees already have plenty to do without picking up after customers who couldn't be bothered to use a trash can. If the nearest bin is full, hold on to your garbage until you find another appropriate place to dispose of it. Keeping the area clean makes the station more pleasant for the next person and helps prevent litter from spreading.
14. Treating the Convenience Store Like a Free Sample Station
Just because it's only one bite or sip doesn't mean you can open a package of snacks and eat them at a gas station without paying. The store sells its food at that location, and it's not okay to sample products without permission. Ask an employee if you have questions about a product or promotion. Pay for the items you'd like to try.
15. Holding Up the Counter While You Make Decisions
There's nothing wrong with taking a moment to choose a drink or ask about a promotion, but try to have your payment ready when you reach the register. Searching through several bags for your wallet or beginning a lengthy phone conversation while the cashier waits can slow down the line. If you need extra time to sort something out, step aside when practical so other customers can pay.
16. Arguing With Employees Over Posted Prices
Fuel prices and convenience store prices can be frustrating, especially when they seem higher than those at another location. However, taking that frustration out on the cashier won't change the price they're authorized to charge. If the pump price doesn't match the posted sign or you believe you've been charged incorrectly, explain the issue calmly and ask a staff member to check it.
17. Leaving Your Vehicle in a Dangerous Position
Do not block someone from using a gas pump or take up multiple spaces at a gas station. This could lead to dangerous situations as others try to access their parked cars or drive around you. Remember that other people are driving around you while you're filling your car or taking up space.
18. Using Compressed Air Without Checking the Instructions
Air compressors are handy, but you shouldn't connect the hose to a tire and start filling it without knowing the recommended pressure. Overinflated or underinflated tires can affect handling, tire wear, and safety, so check the pressure listed on the driver's doorjamb or in your owner's manual rather than relying on the number printed on the tire's sidewall. Use the compressor according to its instructions and check the pressure with a reliable gauge.
19. Ignoring Your Surroundings at Night
Late-night gas stops call for a little extra awareness, especially if you're alone or traveling somewhere unfamiliar. Avoid getting so absorbed in your phone that you stop noticing nearby vehicles, people approaching, or what's happening around the station. Choose a well-lit location when possible, lock your doors when appropriate, and keep valuables out of sight.
20. Leaving Without Checking That You're Ready to Drive
After paying for fuel, it's easy to climb back into your car and pull out while your mind is already on the next destination. Before leaving, make sure the nozzle is returned, your fuel cap or door is secured, your mirrors are set, and the area around your vehicle is clear. Put your phone away, buckle your seat belt, and take a moment to look for pedestrians or cars moving through the lot.
