June 29, 2025

Sneaky Gas Pump Habits That Are Quietly Costing You a Fortune

These gas pump habits may seem harmless, but they're likely costing you money every time you fill up.

Topping Off
One of the most common and costly mistakes at the gas pump is topping off your tank. Over-fueling can harm your engine and reduce its performance. Modern gas stations have vapor recovery systems designed to absorb excess gas released when the tank is full, so topping off is not only unnecessary but also detrimental.

Fueling on the Wrong Day
Gas prices vary throughout the week, typically being cheaper at the beginning of the week and more expensive on weekends. To save money, plan to fuel up early in the week rather than waiting until Friday or Saturday.

Not Choosing the Cheapest Station
Convenience often leads people to the nearest gas station, but this can mean missing out on better prices elsewhere. Utilize gas price apps and websites to find the cheapest gas in your area, potentially saving you a significant amount over time.

Ignoring Loyalty Programs
Many major gas chains, such as Circle K, Exxon Mobil, and Shell, offer fuel reward programs that provide discounts and savings. Regularly fueling up at the same station? Consider joining their loyalty program to benefit from these savings.

Opting for Premium Gasoline
Despite its higher cost, premium gasoline rarely provides additional benefits for most vehicles. According to the Federal Trade Commission, drivers wasted over $2 billion on premium gasoline in 2015. Stick to regular gasoline unless your car specifically requires premium.

Neglecting Tire Inflation
Properly inflated tires can significantly improve your gas mileage. While inflating tires at a gas station might cost a small fee, the savings on fuel due to better mileage are worth it. Make it a habit to check your tire pressure regularly when you fuel up.

Not Using a Rewards Credit Card
Many credit cards offer perks like cash back on gas purchases. Check your credit card's rewards program and make sure you're maximizing your savings by using a card that offers benefits for gas station purchases.

Additional Tips to Save Money on Fuel

Drive Smoothly
Aggressive driving, such as rapid acceleration and braking, can lower your gas mileage by up to 33% on highways and 5% in cities. Maintain a steady speed and anticipate traffic to improve your fuel efficiency.

Reduce Idle Time
Idling consumes fuel without getting you anywhere. If you expect to be stopped for more than a minute, turn off your engine. Modern vehicles are designed to handle frequent restarts with minimal wear.

Lighten Your Load
Extra weight in your vehicle can reduce fuel economy. Clear out unnecessary items from your trunk and interior. Every 100 pounds of extra weight can reduce your miles per gallon by about 1%.

Use Cruise Control
When driving on highways, use cruise control to maintain a constant speed. This can help you save fuel by avoiding unnecessary acceleration and deceleration.

Plan Efficient Routes
Combine errands into one trip to reduce the amount of driving you do. Using GPS navigation can help you find the most efficient routes, avoiding traffic and unnecessary detours.

Monitor Fuel Prices
Stay informed about fuel price trends in your area. Some gas stations offer lower prices during specific times of the day or week. Planning your fuel stops accordingly can result in significant savings.

Consider Carpooling or Ride-Sharing
Carpooling with colleagues or using ride-sharing services can split fuel costs and reduce the wear and tear on your vehicle. It's also a more environmentally friendly option.

Maintain Your Vehicle
Regular maintenance, such as oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug inspections, can keep your engine running efficiently. A well-maintained engine uses fuel more effectively and reduces emissions.

Use Apps for Discounts
There are numerous apps available that offer discounts and rewards for fuel purchases. Apps like GasBuddy, Upside, and Gas Guru can help you find the best deals and earn rewards for your purchases.

By being mindful of your gas pump habits and incorporating these additional tips, you can maximize your fuel savings and reduce your overall transportation costs. Small changes in your fueling routine and driving behavior can lead to significant savings over time.