How to refuel a car for the first time? Diesel, petrol, LPG – guide for beginners
⛽ Fueling up for the first time? Check how to fuel up with gasoline, diesel, or LPG without stress and safely. Learn the differences and practical tips to avoid the most common mistakes.
Your first visit to a gas station can be stressful, but don't worry – fueling up is a simple task if you know how to prepare for it. In this step-by-step guide, I explain how to fuel up with gasoline, diesel oil, and LPG gas. You'll learn how to identify the right pump, what to watch out for, and how to avoid the most common mistakes.
Which fuel to choose? Check before you fuel up!
- Gasoline (PB 95, PB 98): usually marked with green color, nozzle with a smaller diameter.
- Diesel (ON): labeled "DIESEL" or "ON", nozzle often black and with a larger diameter – it cannot be inserted into a gasoline filler cap.
- LPG: liquefied gas, refueled through a separate valve, usually under a flap or in the bumper. Requires the use of a special nozzle and protective gloves.
Attention! Information about the fuel type can be found on the filler cap or in your car's manual. The most common mistake is pouring gasoline into diesel – this results in an expensive repair!
Fueling gasoline or diesel – step by step
- Pull up to the pump from the correct side (where your fuel filler is located).
- Engage the parking brake and turn off the engine.
- Open the fuel filler flap and unscrew the cap.
- Select the correct nozzle (check the fuel marking on the pump and nozzle).
- Insert the nozzle into the filler, press the trigger, and fuel until the desired amount or full (the nozzle will automatically shut off).
- Remove the nozzle, place it back, screw on the cap, and close the flap.
- Pay for the fuel at the cashier or at the pump (if available).
LPG refueling – instructions for beginners
- Pull up to the LPG station, engage the parking brake, and turn off the engine.
- Put on protective gloves (available at the station or your own).
- Open the LPG inlet valve (it may be under a flap or in the bumper).
- Insert the nozzle into the valve and tighten the lever firmly to ensure no leaks.
- Hold the button on the pump throughout the refueling process – releasing it immediately stops the process.
- After refueling is complete, release the lock, carefully disconnect the nozzle, and place it back.
- Screw on the LPG inlet cap, close the flap, and pay for the fuel.
Tip: If you have any doubts or concerns, ask the station staff for help – there's no shame in it, and safety is the most important thing.
Fuel comparison: gasoline, diesel, LPG
| Fuel | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Gasoline | Versatility, quiet engine operation | Higher price, higher fuel consumption |
| Diesel | Lower fuel consumption, good for long distances | Higher maintenance costs, more expensive repairs |
| LPG | Lowest fueling cost, eco-friendly | Shorter range on a full tank, requires installation setup |
Most common mistakes beginners make when fueling
- Pouring the wrong fuel – always check the marking on the filler cap and pump!
- Not turning off the engine or not engaging the parking brake
- Not wearing gloves when refueling LPG – risk of frostbite
- Disconnecting the LPG nozzle too quickly – risk of gas leakage
- Improper closing of the filler cap after refueling
💡 Expert perspective:
Don't be afraid to ask for help – even experienced drivers sometimes ask the staff for assistance when refueling LPG. The most important thing is to stay cautious, choose the right fuel, and properly close the filler cap after refueling.
