5 Things You Should Be Doing at the Gas Station - Vol.319
At some point in your life, it is practically guaranteed that you have been to or will go to a gas station. On a long trip you may make several stops to fill up your vehicle. What many people do not realize is that they are not actually getting the most out of their refilling pit stops. Here are five ways you can maximize your next gas station visit and in turn maximize your cars performance.
1. Simple Tricks to get the Most from the Pump
It is safe to assume that most people have pumped gas at some point in their lives. However, not many people know a few simple tricks to get the most fuel for their dollar when pumping. If your trip requires you to drive odd hours, it is often times cheaper to fill up early in the morning or late at night thanks to the supply and demand of customers. There are more people needing gas through the day so prices tend to be higher. It is also wise to avoid filling up at a station where you know the tanker truck just unloaded the fresh fuel supply. Much like the gas tank in your car, a gas station's gas reservoir can form a sediment layer that accumulates at the bottom. When tanker trucks refill these reservoirs, they also stir up a lot of that unwanted, harmful gunk.
2. Check Your Transmission Fluid
Checking your transmission fluid is a simple way to ensure your car is running properly and to avoid expensive fixes in the future. This fluid is what keeps metal parts in your transmission running smoothly and ensures they are not grinding together. Checking your transmission fluid is a simple process. All you must do is pop the hood and remove the designated dipstick. This stick has lines to show at what level the fluid should be. Refer to your owner's manual if you have trouble finding your dipstick or want to know how many miles you can drive before changing the transmission fluid. Since these levels should be checked when the car is running and has been running, a gas station is the perfect location to look at them.
3. Check Your Tire Pressure
Getting a flat tire can put a damper on a trip of any distance long or far. Low tire pressure is the number one cause of tire failures. Having your tires inflated to the recommended amount reduces overheating and results in less blown tires. If you do not own a tire pressure gauge, most gas stations sell them in the store. Many of them also offer air pumps to inflate your tires. They are usually very cheap, and a dollar can be enough to inflate all four tires.
4. Wash Your Windows
Many gas stations offer free window cleaning equipment right next to the gas pump. This is usually just a two sided cleaning tool and a bucket of window cleaner. The tool has a spongy side for wiping the windows and a squeegee side for cleaning them dry. It can be a good idea to wipe your windows off while the gas is pumping in order to save time. Almost all gas pumps have a way for you to hang the nozzle out of your gas tank and fill up without you having to stand holding the handle. A clear windshield allows you to dive safely and not be distracted by dead bugs and debris on the glass.
5. Ask For Directions
When traveling in an area you are unfamiliar with, a gas station is the perfect place to stop and ask for directions. The attendant working is going to be someone from the area, so they already have a general knowledge of the roads. Gas stations are also frequented by other people driving through who may need directions. Gas station attendants tend to get more practice giving directions than almost anyone else in town.
On your next road trip, make sure to employ some of these tactics to get the most out of your gas station visit. You can save money and clean your car inside and out if you take advantage of everything a gas station has to offer.