Refueling a car is a seemingly elementary procedure that every driver faces. However, even here there are nuances that affect the safety, efficiency and durability of the engine. Mistakes when choosing fuel or violation of rules at a gas station can result in serious damage, fines, or even a fire. According to statistics Rosavtodor, up to 15% of breakdowns of injection systems are associated with the use of low-quality or unsuitable gasoline, and 8% of fires at gas stations occur due to violations of safety regulations by customers.

This article is not just a retelling of the instructions from the column - it contains expert information on how to how to choose the right fuel for your car, what additives really worklike avoid being scammed at a gas station and what to do in emergency situations (for example, if you accidentally filled with diesel instead of gasoline). We will also look at myths about "filling the tank", saving on cheap fuel and the effect of time of day on the quality of gasoline. The information is relevant for 2026 and takes into account recent changes in fuel standards (including Euro 6 and K5).

1. How to determine what gasoline your car needs

First rule: never rely on price or advice from “experienced” people. The type of fuel is strictly regulated by the manufacturer and depends on the engine design, compression ratio and injection system. Using gasoline with an octane rating lower than recommended leads to detonation (microexplosions in the cylinders), which destroys the pistons and valves. For example, for Toyota Corolla 2023 (models with engine 1.6 Dual VVT-i) required AI-95, and for Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0 TSI - only AI-98.

Where to look for fuel information:

  • 📄 Instructions for use (section "Technical characteristics" or "Fuel"). U Hyundai Solar this is indicated on pages 12-14, at Kia Rio - on page 8.
  • 🚗 Sticker on the back of the fuel filler flap. Manufacturers duplicate the information here for convenience. For example, on Renault Duster it says: "Unleaded petrol only / 95 RON min".
  • 🔧 Under the hood. On some models (for example, Ford Focus ST) fuel data is marked on the cylinder head cover.
  • 💻 Manufacturer's official website. Enter the VIN code in the service VIN decoder (for example, on vin.info).

Critical error: if your car is designed for AI-95, and you filled it with AI-92 “because it’s cheaper,” the risk of detonation increases by 40% under loads (overtaking, going uphill). Modern turbocharged engines (Ecoboost, TSI) are especially sensitive to octane number.

📊 What kind of gasoline do you usually fill in?
Only what the manufacturer recommends
Higher octane "for prevention"
Cheaper if the price difference is significant
I don’t know what they pour at gas stations

2. Preparing for refueling: what to check before driving up to the pump

Novice drivers often skip this step, but it is important for safety and economy. Here's what to do before you stopped at the pump:

  1. Make sure the gas tank is not overfilled. If the fuel arrow on the dashboard shows “half tank”, and you are going to fill it “to full”, you risk overfilling. In hot weather, gasoline expands and too much fuel can damage the tank's venting system.
  2. Check the side of the fuel filler flap. On most foreign cars it is located on the left (in the direction of travel), but there are exceptions: Nissan Qashqai, Mitsubishi Outlander - on the right. Approach the pump with the correct side to avoid stretching the hose.
  3. Turn off the engine and all electrical appliances. Even charging your phone from the cigarette lighter can cause a spark. B Fire safety rules at gas stations (PPB 01-03) this is stated as a mandatory requirement.
  4. Prepare your payment method. At some gas stations (for example, Gazpromneft) discounts apply only when paying by card through the terminal.

Professional life hack: if you refuel at an unfamiliar gas station, pay attention to gun color:

  • 🟢 Green - AI-95 (sometimes AI-98)
  • 🔴 Red - AI-92
  • 🟡 Yellow - diesel (DT)
  • 🔵 Blue — gas (methane/propane)

But don't rely on color alone—always check the writing on the column!

☑️ Preparing for refueling

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3. Step-by-step instructions: how to refuel at a gas station correctly

Now let's move on to the process itself. Follow this algorithm to avoid errors:

  1. Stop next to the pump so that the gas tank flap is opposite the gun. Distance to the speaker - no less 1.5 meters (this is a requirement GOST R 58404-2019). At some gas stations (for example, Lukoil) there are markings on the asphalt.
  2. Open the fuel filler flap. In most modern cars, this is done from the passenger compartment - the lever is usually located to the left of the driver's seat (next to the seat adjustment) and is indicated by a gas station icon. On BMW 3 Series the button is located on the center console.
  3. Unscrew the tank cap counterclockwise. Place it on a clean surface (for example, on the fender of a car) or hold it in your hand - do not place it on a speaker or the ground!
  4. Take the gun and insert it into the tank neck all the way. Press down on the lever and secure it in the open position with the latch (if equipped).
  5. Pay for fuel. Methods:
    • 💳 Through the terminal (select column, fuel type, enter amount or liters).
    • 💵 Cash at the cash desk (tell us the pump number, fuel type and amount).
    • 📱 Via a mobile application (for example, Gas station "Rosneft" or Shell).
  • Start refueling. After payment, press the button on the gun (usually green) and monitor the indicators on the column display.
  • Complete the process. When the required volume is filled, the cutoff will automatically work. Remove the gun carefully, avoiding splashes, and hang it back.
  • Close the tank. Tighten the plug clockwise until it clicks, then close the hatch.

    • Important! If you refuel "to a full tank", listen to the sound: when the fuel begins to "gurgle" in the neck, this is a signal that the tank is almost full. Do not wait for the automatic cut-off to avoid overfilling.

    💡

    If there are no free pumps at the gas station, and the queue is long, fill up with half a tank. This will save time and reduce the risk of overfilling due to fuel expansion in hot weather.

    4. Common mistakes when refueling and their consequences

    Even experienced drivers sometimes make mistakes that are costly. Here are the most dangerous of them:

    Error Consequences How to avoid
    Filling with diesel instead of gasoline (or vice versa) Failure of the fuel pump, injectors, catalyst. Repair from 50 000 ₽ (for VW Passat B8 - up to 120 000 ₽) Always check the lettering on the gun and the color of the grip. At some gas stations (for example, Tatneft) diesel pistols are larger than gasoline ones.
    Tank overflow Gasoline getting into the adsorber, fuel level sensor failure. In hot weather, the tank depressurizes. Do not wait for automatic cutoff. Fill 1-2 liters less than the tank capacity.
    Using checkout canisters Gasoline from canisters is often diluted or expired. Risk of fuel filter clogging. Buy fuel only through the pump. If you need to stock up, take it new plastic canisters marked "for fuels and lubricants".
    Refueling with the engine running Risk of ignition of gasoline vapors from a spark. Fine according to Code of Administrative Offenses 20.4 - up to 2 000 ₽. Always turn off the engine and remove the key from the ignition.
    Ignoring a check It is impossible to prove the quality of fuel in the event of a breakdown. At some gas stations (Bashneft) a check is needed for shares. Keep your receipts for 2 weeks - this is the period for detecting problems with fuel.

    Expert opinion: Alexander Kulikov, master diagnostician with 15 years of experience:

    ⚠️ Attention! If, after refueling, the car starts to “sputter”, loses power, or lights up on the dashboard Check Engine, stop immediately and call a tow truck. Don’t try to get to the service station “at random” - this will worsen the breakdown. In 70% of such cases, low-quality fuel with excessive sulfur or tar content is to blame.

    5. How to choose a reliable gas station: signs of high-quality gasoline

    In Russia there are more than 25,000 gas stations, but only 30% of which guarantee fuel that meets GOST 32513-2013. Here's how to distinguish a proven gas station:

    • 🏆 Network gas stations with certificates. Leaders in quality (according to Rosstandart for 2026): Gazpromneft, Lukoil, Rosneft, Shell. Avoid little-known brands like Neft-Plus or AutoOil.
    • 📊 Transparent reporting. Inspection protocols must be published on the gas station website RosAccreditation. For example, Tatneft places them in the "Fuel Quality" section.
    • 🔍 Cleanliness on site. If there is dirt around the pumps, puddles of unknown liquid or rusty barrels, this is a sign of negligence in fuel storage.
    • 💰 The price is not lower than the market average. In 2026, the average cost AI-95 in the Central region - 52-54 ₽/liter. If the price is lower by 3-5 ₽, there is a high risk of diluted gasoline.
    • 🚛 Availability of own oil depots. Network gas stations (Bashneft, Surgutneftegaz) have their own storage facilities, which reduces the risk of mixing consoles.

    Gasoline quality test (you can do it yourself):

    1. Pour some fuel from the tank onto clean white paper.
    2. Wait 2-3 minutes. If a greasy stain remains or the paper has become transparent, the gasoline contains impurities of oils or solvents.
    3. Smell the fuel. Strong smell of sulfur or chemicals (resembling dichlorvos) indicates low quality.
    What to do if you fill up with bad gasoline?

    If after refueling the car behaves unusually (shudders, does not pull, smokes), immediately add it to the tank. fuel system cleaner (for example, Liqui Moly Fuel System Cleaner) and dilute the bad gasoline with good gasoline (fill in 10-15 liters AI-98 at the nearest verified gas station). If symptoms persist, drain the fuel and flush the tank.

    6. Myths and truths about refueling a car

    The driving community is full of misconceptions about fuel. Let's look at the most popular ones:

    Myth 1: “It’s more profitable to fill up with gasoline in the morning - it’s denser and you can fit more of it.”

    ❌ Truth: The difference in gasoline density between morning and afternoon is only 0.5-0.7% (data Research Institute of Oil Refining). But in the morning there are queues at the gas station, and in the afternoon you can refuel faster. Savings - no more 50 ₽ for a full tank, but the loss of time is up to 20 minutes.

    Myth 2: “AI-98 is more useful for any engine, even if the manufacturer recommends AI-95.”

    ❌ Truth: For engines not designed for high-octane fuel, AI-98 can cause retarded ignition and increased carbon deposits on spark plugs. For example, in Lada Vesta with motor 1.6 (106 hp) the use of AI-98 instead of AI-95 leads to an increase in fuel consumption by 3-5%.

    Myth 3: “If you often refuel “to full”, the gas pump will last longer.”

    ❌ Truth: The fuel pump is cooled by fuel, so constantly driving with an almost empty tank (less than 1/4) reduces its resource. But a “full tank” all year round is also not a panacea: in the heat, gasoline expands, and excess can damage the ventilation system. Optimally - refuel when there is leftover 1/3 tank.

    Myth 4: “Gasoline additives are a scam.”

    ✅ Partly true: Most “miracle additives” are useless, but there are proven remedies:

    • 🧪 Liqui Moly Speed Tec — increases the octane number by 2-3 points (confirmed by tests ADAC).
    • 🧽 Wynn's Fuel System Cleaner — cleans injectors (efficiency ~85% according to data Auto Express).
    • ❄️ Castrol Ice Protect — prevents freezing of water in fuel in winter.

    But! Additives will not save you from highly diluted gasoline or mechanical failures.

    💡

    The only additive that should be used regularly is injector cleaner (1 time every 10,000 km). All others - only when necessary (for example, anti-gel in winter).

    7. Features of refueling in different situations

    Refueling does not always take place under ideal conditions. Let's look at the nuances for specific cases:

    ❄️ Winter dressing:

    • Fuel up up to half tankto avoid condensation. In cold weather, moisture in the fuel freezes and can block the fuel line.
    • Use winter diesel (with antifreeze additives) at a gas station Rosneft or Gazpromneft. It is marked as DT-Z-K5.
    • After refueling, let the car sit for 1-2 minutes with the engine turned off - this will allow the gasoline vapors to be evenly distributed.

    🌡️ Summer dressing:

    • Avoid gas stations in peak heat (12:00-15:00) - gasoline evaporates rapidly, and you get fewer liters for the same money.
    • Check the tightness of the tank lid. In hot weather, the pressure in the tank increases, and a faulty cap can allow vapor to escape.

    🚗 Refueling in another country:

    • B Europe instead of AI-95 it is used E5 (5% ethanol), in USA — Regular (87 AKI), which corresponds to our AI-92.
    • B Turkey and UAE gasoline is cheaper, but often diluted. Only fill up at gas stations BP or Shell.
    • B Japan There is no self-service at the gas station - only the staff fills up.

    ⚡ Emergency refueling (if you run out of gas):

    • If you stall on the highway, don't turn on the emergency lights - this will quickly drain the battery. Use a warning triangle.
    • For diesel cars (Skoda Octavia 1.6 TDI) never use gasoline as a "diluent" - it will kill the fuel system.
    • After emergency refueling from a canister be sure to wash the fuel filter at the service station.
    What to do if you run out of gas on the highway?

    1. Park the car on the side of the road, turn on the emergency lights and place a warning triangle (at least 15 m from the car in the city and 30 m outside the city).

    2. Call roadside assistance (e.g. RSA 8-800-200-0-911) or order an on-site fuel service (UberPetrol).

    3. If you decide to walk for gasoline, take it red canister (for gasoline) and do not take fuel from random people on the side of the road.

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    8. Frequently asked questions about refueling your car

    ❓ Is it possible to mix gasoline of different brands (for example, AI-92 and AI-95)?

    Yes, but only if the octane number higherthan recommended by the manufacturer. For example, in a car with AI-95 you can add AI-98, but not vice versa. Mixing AI-92 and AI-95 in a 1:1 ratio will give an octane number of ~93.5, which can cause detonation in engines designed for 95.

    ❓ Why did the car drive worse after refueling?

    Probable reasons:

    1. Poor quality fuel (low octane number or impurities).
    2. The fuel filter is clogged (if there is sediment in the gasoline).
    3. Air entering the fuel system (for example, due to a loose tank cap).

    Solution: Drain the fuel, flush the tank and replace the fuel filter. If the problem persists, check lambda probe and spark plugs.

    ❓ How long can you drive with a gas light on?

    Depends on the car. On average the reserve is:

    • Small cars (Hyundai Solaris, Kia Rio) — 30-50 km.
    • Midsize sedans (Toyota Camry, Skoda Octavia) — 50-80 km.
    • SUVs (Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5) — 70-100 km.

    ⚠️ Attention! Driving "on a light bulb" is harmful to the fuel pump - it overheats without sufficient cooling by fuel. On Audi A4 B9 this may damage the pump (~25 000 ₽ for replacement).

    ❓ Is it possible to refuel with the engine running?

    No! This violates Fire safety rules at gas stations (PPB 01-03) and is fraught with:

    • Ignition of gasoline vapors from a spark.
    • Fine up to 2 000 ₽ (by Code of Administrative Offenses 20.4).
    • Refusal to pay insurance in case of fire.

    Exception: diesel cars (Mercedes-Benz OM654) you can refuel with the engine running, but it is still unsafe.

    ❓ How to refuel if the gas station does not have the necessary gasoline?

    Options:

    • 🔄 Fill up with gasoline higher octane number (for example, AI-98 instead of AI-95).
    • 🛢️ Buy a can of high-quality gasoline at another gas station and dilute the fuel in the tank with it (ratio 1:1).
    • 🚗 Drive to the nearest verified gas station with the remaining fuel (if the light is not on).

    ❌ Never fill:

    • Gasoline with low octane number.
    • Fuel from barrels or low-quality cans.
    • Octane boosters - they don't work instantly.