There’s a little-known dashboard feature that stops drivers from being caught out when they pull up to the pump – and it’s been ‘hidden in plain sight’ for many motorists
Pulling up to the petrol station forecourt only to discover your fuel cap is on the wrong side is one of life’s most irritating moments.
While some pumps boast lengthy hoses that can stretch across with a bit of manoeuvring, others simply won’t reach, leaving you with no choice but to relocate your motor. However, there’s a brilliant trick that ensures drivers will never fall victim to this petrol station blunder again.
The answer lies right on your dashboard, hiding in plain sight for countless motorists. It comes after news that anyone buying fuel next week will be given ‘£15 charge’ warning by The AA.
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William Fletcher MBE, CEO of Car.co.uk, a prominent vehicle disposal service, revealed the game-changing tip will save drivers from the dreaded forecourt shuffle.
He explained: “Most people have no idea this feature exists, yet it’s been right there in front of them the entire time. Once you know about it, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it.”
The answer to this timeless dilemma is remarkably straightforward. Positioned beside your fuel gauge sits a tiny arrow or triangle symbol that most drivers have completely overlooked, reports the Daily Record.
This minuscule indicator actually reveals which side of your vehicle houses the petrol cap. “It’s genuinely one of those things that makes you slap your forehead when you first learn about it,” Fletcher revealed.
“The arrow is usually quite small and sits right next to the petrol pump symbol on your fuel gauge. If it points left, your cap’s on the left. If it points right, it’s on the right.”
This ingenious design element has been a standard feature in most cars for years, yet it continues to be one of the motoring world’s most closely guarded secrets. A quick check of your dashboard before you head to the petrol station could spare you from an embarrassing mix-up.
Being aware of which side your fuel cap is on isn’t just about saving face; it’s also practical. Pulling into the wrong side can lead to more than just a bit of manoeuvring – it might even cause damage.
“When people stretch the fuel hose across their car to reach the cap on the opposite side, they risk scratching their paintwork,” Fletcher cautioned.
“Plus, not all hoses are long enough to reach comfortably, which can put strain on the equipment and potentially cause spills.”
Time is another factor to consider as petrol stations are bustling places, and reversing to switch pumps can hold up the queue. While not all cars have this helpful arrow, especially older models or certain makes, there’s usually another hint available.
“If you can’t spot an arrow, look at which side of the fuel gauge the petrol pump symbol appears on,” Fletcher advised.
“More often than not, this indicates which side your fuel cap is located. It’s not as reliable as the arrow method, but it’s a decent backup.”
Some motorists have observed that the fuel pump icon may have a tiny handle or nozzle indicating the cap’s side, although this isn’t consistent across all brands. According to Fletcher, incorporating a quick dashboard check into your daily driving habits is simpler than it seems.
He suggests taking the time to learn the layout of your vehicle’s dashboard. “Next time you’re filling up, take a proper look at your fuel gauge area,” he recommended.
“Once you know exactly what to look for in your particular car, it becomes second nature. You’ll automatically glance at it every time you approach a petrol station.”
Adopting this small routine can be incredibly beneficial, particularly when you’re behind the wheel of an unfamiliar or hired car and the position of the fuel cap isn’t immediately obvious.
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