Sylvie Willis
Filling up your car with fuel is a standard procedure for any driver, but it can be daunting for those who are new to it. The process is quite straightforward and involves locating the fuel cap, choosing the right fuel type, and filling the tank. It is important to know the basics, such as how to open the fuel cap, where the payment card or money is located, and which type of fuel is required to avoid putting the wrong fuel in the car. This guide will provide a step-by-step overview of the process, including safety tips and fuel station etiquette, to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience for new drivers in the UK.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Where is the fuel cap? | On the car's hind quarters, over either the left or right back wheel. |
| How to open the fuel cap? | It might be with your key, it could be a lever inside your car or you might just need to press on the panel covering it. |
| How to know which fuel to use? | Diesel is usually black, petrol is usually green but will be labelled unleaded. |
| How to pay? | Many offer a 'pay at pump' service, but to use this you will need to have put your credit or debit card into the chip and pin machine at the pump and had it authorised, before you lift the nozzle and put the (correct) fuel in. If you’re not using pay at pump, then you simply put your fuel in, then lock your car, note the number of your pump, and head into the kiosk to pay at the counter. |
| How much to fill? | Keep an eye on the pump's screen, which will tell you how much you're putting in and how much it will cost. |
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What You'll Learn
How to open your fuel cap
Knowing how to open your fuel cap is an important step in the process of filling up your car with fuel. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to do it:
Firstly, locate the fuel cap cover. This is usually found on the hind quarters of your car, over either the left or right back wheel. It is important to remember which side it is on, as you will need to choose a pump that matches up with it when you go to a petrol station.
Now, let's go through the different ways you can open your fuel cap:
- Using your key: Some fuel caps require a key to be unlocked. Simply insert your key and twist it to the left. The cap should come off easily, and you can put it somewhere safe, like on the raised edge of the pump.
- Push door: Some fuel caps have a push door mechanism. This means you will need to push on the panel covering the fuel cap to open it.
- Button inside the car: In some cars, there is a button near the driver's seat that opens the fuel cap.
- Lever inside the car: Alternatively, there might be a lever inside your car that you need to pull or push to open the fuel cap.
- Little gap: Some fuel caps have a little gap where you can insert your finger and pull to open the cap.
It is important to note that the method of opening the fuel cap may vary depending on the make and model of your car. It is always a good idea to try opening your fuel cap before you arrive at the petrol station to avoid any stress or confusion.
Once you have opened the fuel cap cover, you will see the actual fuel cap. This may be a twist-off cap, or it may be key-operated, as mentioned earlier. Make sure you know how to open this cap as well, as you will need to remove it to access the fuel tank.
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$123.8
Diesel vs petrol
When filling up your car, it is important to know whether your car runs on diesel or petrol. Diesel is generally from the black hose and nozzle, while petrol is labelled 'Unleaded' and is usually from a green hose and nozzle.
Diesel cars are typically more expensive than petrol cars. For example, a petrol Mercedes E 200 AMG Line saloon was priced at £55,120 as of June 2024, while the diesel version, the E 220 d AMG Line, was priced at £56,820. Diesel engines need to be stronger because they ignite fuel by compressing it to very high pressure rather than using a spark plug. The presence of additional systems in diesel cars, such as emission-control systems, can also add to servicing costs and potentially lead to more expensive repair costs. Modern diesel cars use a system called Selective Catalytic Reduction and a liquid called AdBlue to reduce harmful nitrogen oxide emissions. AdBlue tanks need to be periodically refilled, adding to the overall cost of owning a diesel car.
In terms of fuel prices, Northern Ireland is the cheapest place in the UK to buy fuel. In March 2024, the average price of petrol in Northern Ireland was 139.1p, while diesel was 148.1p. In the same month, the South East of the UK had the highest average diesel and petrol prices, with drivers paying an average of 154.6p for diesel and 146.1p for petrol. As of March 2025, unleaded petrol costs an average of 137.39p per litre, while diesel costs an average of 144.14p per litre.
Despite the higher costs associated with diesel cars, they remain a popular choice for many drivers. In fact, tens of thousands of diesel cars still find new homes each year. However, it's important to note that there is a ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars from 2035, so we may see a shift towards electric vehicles in the coming years.
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Payment methods
UK Fuels, one of Europe's biggest fuel card companies, offers fuel cards for businesses and companies registered in the UK. With over 30 years of experience, they are trusted by over 100,000 UK businesses and provide access to over 7,200 fuel stations across the UK, including major brands like BP, Texaco, Esso, and Shell, as well as supermarkets. Their Radius Velocity portal offers features such as online invoices, purchase history, alerts, and reporting to help businesses understand usage and driver behaviour.
The BP Plus Hybrid card is another fuel card option that provides access to over 14,000 public charge points in the UK, including ultra-rapid chargers. This card can be used at the till like a regular payment method, with the added security of PIN protection.
For businesses with a mix of traditional and electric vehicles, EV hybrid cards offer a convenient way to pay for fuel and EV charging with a single card. These cards can be managed through the Radius Velocity portal, where you can view invoices, track expenses, and put a stop on lost or stolen cards. Additionally, these cards offer contactless payment capabilities at charging points.
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Fueling a car with an electric pump
Step 1: Prepare Your Car
Before heading to the petrol station, there are a few things to check and keep in mind:
- Know which side your fuel tank is on. This will help you choose the correct pump at the station.
- Familiarize yourself with how to open your fuel cap. Some caps are key-operated, while others are push doors, require a button to be pressed inside the car, or have a little gap to pop your finger under and pull open. Practice this before you arrive at the station to avoid feeling flustered.
- Know what type of fuel your car needs. Petrol is usually labelled "Unleaded" and is typically dispensed through a green hose and nozzle, while diesel is generally from a black hose and nozzle. Putting the wrong fuel in your car can cause havoc with your engine and lead to costly repairs.
- Locate a few petrol stations along your route, so you know where to stop when you need to refuel.
Step 2: Arrive at the Petrol Station
Once you've arrived at the petrol station, follow these steps:
- Park your car next to the pump that matches the side of your fuel tank.
- Apply the handbrake, put the gear into neutral, and turn off the engine.
- Take your keys and payment method with you when you get out of the car.
- Go to the pump side of your car and locate the fuel cap.
Step 3: Open the Fuel Cap and Choose Your Fuel
- If your fuel cap requires a key, insert and twist it to the left. Place the cap somewhere safe, such as on the raised edge of the pump.
- If your fuel cap doesn't need a key, simply flip open the panel like a small door.
- You will then see the actual fuel cap, which you can twist open or pop up.
- Take a moment to double-check the type of fuel your car needs.
Step 4: Start the Fueling Process
- Insert your payment card into the card slot at the pump and enter your PIN if prompted.
- Grab the nozzle handle and lift it upwards, then outwards to unhook it from the pump.
- Move the nozzle to your fuel hole and insert it firmly.
- Squeeze the handle to start the fuel flow. The pump will make a noise to indicate that fuel is being dispensed.
- Keep an eye on the pump's screen, which will show you how much fuel you're putting in and the cost.
- Stop squeezing the handle when you've reached your desired amount or continue until you hear a "thunk," indicating your tank is full.
Step 5: Finalize and Depart
- Ensure your fuel cap is firmly screwed back on and the covering panel is shut if applicable.
- If you've already inserted your card into the pump machine, you can leave once you've secured your fuel cap.
- If you're paying with cash or at a kiosk, lock your car, note the number of your pump, and head to the counter to complete your payment.
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Fuel station etiquette
Filling up your car at a fuel station is a straightforward process, but it can feel daunting if you've never done it before. Here are some tips to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and efficient experience when refuelling your car:
Choosing a Pump
Before arriving at the fuel station, it's a good idea to know which side your fuel tank is on. That way, you can choose a pump that matches up with it. This will save you time and avoid any inconvenience.
Opening the Fuel Cap
Familiarise yourself with how to open your fuel cap before reaching the forecourt. It could be key-operated, a push door, or require pressing a button inside the car. Practise opening it beforehand so you don't feel stressed when it's time to refuel.
Type of Fuel
Always double-check the type of fuel your car requires. Diesel is typically dispensed from a black hose and nozzle, while petrol is labelled "Unleaded" and usually has a green hose and nozzle. Putting the wrong fuel in your car can lead to costly repairs.
Payment Methods
Many fuel stations offer "`pay at pump`" options, where you insert your card before filling up. Alternatively, you can pay inside the kiosk after locking your car and noting your pump number. If your card is declined, explain the situation to the attendant and arrange an alternative payment method.
Mobile Phone Usage
While it may not present a significant ignition risk, it's generally advised not to use your mobile phone while refuelling. Using your phone during the process is considered impolite and may hold up the queue.
Efficiency
After filling up and paying, it's considerate to move your car away from the pumps promptly. This is especially important if there is a queue of waiting cars. However, ensure you securely replace your fuel cap before driving off.
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Frequently asked questions
There are two main ways to open the fuel cap. It’s either a button on the inside of your car near the driver's seat, or you can push onto the fuel cover. The fuel cap itself may be a twist-off one, or it may be key-operated.
Diesel is usually black, petrol is usually green, and will be labelled 'Unleaded'. The nozzle is on the right side of the pump, and if the pump is yellow, it's diesel. Check your manual for the recommended grade.
Many petrol stations offer a pay at pump service, where you put your card in the chip and pin machine at the pump and have it authorised before you lift the nozzle and put the fuel in. If you're not using pay at pump, put your fuel in, lock your car, note the number of the pump, and head into the kiosk to pay at the counter.
After filling up and paying, just get back in the car and drive off. Don't sit in your car checking emails or social media. Although it's unlikely to be dangerous, it's not a good idea to use your mobile phone while filling up.
