Catgory: Transportation

Buying Gas & Charging an Electric Vehicle

Keeping a vehicle fueled or charged is part of everyday transportation. The process becomes routine once you understand what your vehicle needs, where to stop, how to pay, and how to use the equipment safely.

Gas-powered vehicles require the correct fuel grade and type. Electric vehicles require a compatible charging connector and enough time to add the range you need. Plug-in hybrid vehicles may use both electricity and gasoline.

Before using an unfamiliar pump or charger, read the instructions and confirm that you have selected the correct product for your vehicle.

Know What Powers Your Vehicle

Vehicles may use:

• Regular gasoline
• Premium gasoline
• Diesel fuel
• Electricity
• Gasoline and electricity
• Alternative fuels such as E85

Do not guess.

Check:

• The owner’s manual
• The label inside the fuel door
• The fuel cap
• The charging-port area
• The dashboard
• The manufacturer’s official app

Using the wrong fuel can damage the engine or fuel system. Using an incompatible charging connector or unapproved adapter can prevent charging or damage equipment.

Watch the Fuel or Battery Level

Do not wait until the vehicle is almost empty.

Monitor:

• Fuel gauge
• Battery percentage
• Estimated driving range
• Low-fuel or low-battery warning
• Distance to the next station
• Weather and traffic
• The distance required for your return trip

Estimated range can change because of:

• Speed
• Traffic
• Weather
• Hills
• Heating or air conditioning
• Towing
• Heavy loads
• Driving style
• Battery temperature

Keep a larger reserve when traveling in unfamiliar areas, during severe weather, or where stations are far apart.

Buying Gas

Understand Gasoline Grades

Gasoline pumps commonly offer several octane levels, such as:

• Regular
• Midgrade
• Premium

The pump may also display numbers such as:

• 87
• 89
• 91
• 93

The numbers represent the fuel’s octane rating. A higher number does not automatically mean the gasoline is better for every vehicle.

Use the grade specified in the owner’s manual or on the fuel-door label.

The manual may say that premium fuel is:

• Required
• Recommended
• Optional
• Unnecessary

If premium is required, use it. If regular is recommended, buying a higher grade may not provide a meaningful benefit.

Gasoline, Diesel, and E85 Are Different

Do not put diesel fuel into a gasoline vehicle or gasoline into a diesel vehicle.

E85 contains a high percentage of ethanol and should be used only in a flex-fuel vehicle approved for it.

Fuel-nozzle colors are not completely standardized. Do not select a pump based only on the color of the handle.

Read the label carefully.

If you realize that you selected or added the wrong fuel:

• Do not start the engine.
• Do not turn on the ignition.
• Move away from the pump only if instructed and safe.
• Tell the station employee.
• Call roadside assistance or a qualified repair service.

Starting the engine may circulate the incorrect fuel and increase the damage.

Choose a Gas Station

When possible, choose a station that is:

• Well lit
• Open
• Maintained
• Easy to enter and leave
• In a location where you feel comfortable
• Clearly displaying prices
• Accepting your preferred payment method

Before entering, notice:

• Which side of the vehicle contains the fuel door
• Which entrance provides the safest approach
• Whether traffic flows in a particular direction
• Whether the pump is available
• Whether the vehicle will fit

Many fuel gauges include a small arrow showing which side of the vehicle has the fuel door.

Pull Up to the Pump

Approach slowly and position the vehicle so the fuel door is reasonably close to the pump.

Then:

1. Shift into park.
2. Set the parking brake when appropriate.
3. Turn off the engine.
4. Turn off smoking materials and other open flames.
5. Confirm that passengers remain safe.
6. Note the pump number.

Do not block another pump or stretch the hose across the vehicle unless the equipment and station layout clearly allow it.

Paying at the Pump

A pump may accept:

• Credit card
• Debit card
• Contactless payment
• Mobile wallet
• Fuel card
• Loyalty account

Follow the prompts on the screen.

You may be asked for:

• ZIP code
• Debit-card PIN
• Loyalty number
• Car-wash selection
• Receipt preference

Read each prompt before making a choice. Some screens present optional products or services.

A station may place a temporary authorization hold on your account that is larger than the amount of fuel purchased. The final charge usually replaces the hold, but the timing depends on the station, bank, and payment method.

If your available balance is low, consider paying a specific amount inside.

Check for Card Skimmers

A skimmer is a device used to steal payment-card information.

Before inserting a card:

• Look for a broken security seal.
• Check whether the pump panel appears open or damaged.
• Pull gently on the card reader.
• Compare it with readers on nearby pumps.
• Look for loose parts or unusual attachments.
• Avoid using a machine that appears altered.

The Federal Trade Commission recommends checking the pump for signs of tampering. When available, contactless payment may reduce the need to insert the card.

Monitor your account after using an unfamiliar pump and report unauthorized charges promptly.

Paying Inside

If you prefer not to pay at the pump:

1. Note the pump number.
2. Lock the vehicle.
3. Go to the cashier.
4. State the pump number.
5. Provide the amount you want to purchase.
6. Pay.
7. Return to the vehicle.
8. Pump the fuel.

If the tank takes less than the amount you prepaid, ask how the remaining money will be returned. Card refunds may be automatic, while cash refunds may require returning to the cashier.

Confirm the pump number carefully. Giving the wrong number may authorize someone else’s pump.

Opening the Fuel Door

The fuel door may open by:

• Pressing it
• Pulling an interior lever
• Pressing a dashboard button
• Unlocking the vehicle
• Using the key
• Selecting a control on the screen

Remove the fuel cap if the vehicle has one.

Place it:

• In the holder on the fuel door
• On its attached cord
• In another location designed by the manufacturer

Do not place the cap on the ground or leave it where it could be forgotten.

Selecting the Fuel

Before lifting the nozzle:

1. Confirm the vehicle’s fuel type.
2. Read the pump labels.
3. Select the correct grade.
4. Make sure you are not choosing diesel or E85 by mistake.
5. Wait for the pump to authorize the sale.

Some pumps use one nozzle for several gasoline grades. Others use separate nozzles.

Read the screen and button labels every time.

Pumping Gas

A general process is:

1. Lift the correct nozzle.
2. Insert it fully into the fuel opening.
3. Select the correct grade if you have not already done so.
4. Squeeze the handle.
5. Use the hold-open latch if permitted and desired.
6. Remain near the vehicle.
7. Watch the pump.
8. Release the handle when the pump stops automatically.

Do not leave the pump unattended.

Avoid using your phone or completing other distracting tasks while fueling. Follow every posted station rule.

Static Electricity

Static electricity can create a spark around gasoline vapors.

To reduce the risk:

• Turn off the engine.
• Do not smoke.
• Avoid getting back into the vehicle while fuel is flowing.
• Follow posted safety instructions.
• Keep approved fuel containers on the ground while filling.

If you must reenter the vehicle, discharge static electricity by touching a metal part of the vehicle away from the fuel opening before touching the nozzle again.

If a fire starts, do not remove the nozzle. Move away and notify the station attendant or call 911.

Do Not Top Off the Tank

When the pump stops automatically, fueling is generally complete.

Do not repeatedly squeeze the handle to force more fuel into the tank.

Topping off may:

• Cause fuel to spill
• Damage the vehicle’s vapor-recovery system
• Waste money
• Create a fire or environmental hazard

Follow the vehicle manufacturer’s instructions.

Finishing the Transaction

After the pump stops:

1. Release the handle.
2. Wait briefly for fuel to stop flowing.
3. Remove the nozzle carefully.
4. Return it securely to the pump.
5. Replace and tighten the fuel cap, if present.
6. Close the fuel door.
7. Select or collect the receipt.
8. Check the ground for spills.
9. Confirm that nothing was left behind.

Some vehicles display a warning if the fuel cap is loose.

Do not drive away with the nozzle still connected.

If Gas Spills

If a small amount spills:

• Stop pumping.
• Do not start the vehicle.
• Keep flames and sparks away.
• Tell the station employee.
• Follow the employee’s instructions.

For a larger spill, fire, strong fumes, or immediate danger, move away and call 911.

Do not attempt to wash gasoline into a drain.

Filling a Portable Gas Container

Use only a container approved for fuel.

When filling it:

• Remove it from the vehicle.
• Place it directly on the ground.
• Keep the nozzle in contact with the container opening.
• Fill it slowly.
• Leave appropriate expansion space.
• Close it securely.
• Transport it upright and secured.
• Keep it away from passengers when possible.

Never fill a container while it is inside a vehicle, trunk, truck bed with a liner, or other enclosed space.

Do not store gasoline inside your home or living area.

If the Pump Does Not Work

If the pump will not authorize, dispense fuel, or provide a receipt:

• Read the screen.
• Confirm that payment was accepted.
• Make sure the correct grade was selected.
• Return the nozzle and try restarting only if instructed.
• Use the assistance button.
• Speak with the cashier.
• Use another pump if directed.

Do not repeatedly insert your card into a machine that appears damaged.

Check your bank account later to make sure you were charged correctly.

Charging an Electric Vehicle

Understand the Types of Electric Vehicles

Electric vehicles generally include:

Battery-Electric Vehicles

A battery-electric vehicle runs only on electricity and must be charged.

Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles

A plug-in hybrid can charge from an electrical source and also use gasoline.

Conventional Hybrids

A conventional hybrid uses gasoline and charges its smaller battery through the engine and regenerative braking. It is not normally plugged into a charging station.

Know which type you drive before planning how to fuel or charge it.

Understand Charging Levels

Charging equipment is commonly described as Level 1, Level 2, or DC fast charging.

Level 1 Charging

Level 1 charging typically uses a standard 120-volt household outlet.

It is:

• Usually the slowest option
• Commonly used at home
• Useful for shorter daily driving needs
• Capable of adding range while the vehicle remains parked for many hours

Level 2 Charging

Level 2 charging generally uses a 240-volt residential circuit or commercial electrical service.

It is:

• Faster than Level 1
• Common at homes, workplaces, stores, hotels, and public parking areas
• Often suitable for overnight charging
• Available at many public charging stations

DC Fast Charging

DC fast charging provides electricity directly to the battery at much higher power.

It is:

• The fastest common public option
• Often located near highways and travel corridors
• Useful during longer trips
• More expensive at some locations
• Not supported at the same maximum speed by every vehicle

The charging speed depends on the vehicle, station, battery level, battery temperature, weather, and other factors.

Know Your Connector

Public chargers may use different connectors, including:

• J1772
• CCS
• CHAdeMO
• J3400, also commonly known as NACS

The charging connector used by U.S. vehicles and networks is changing as more manufacturers adopt J3400/NACS. Connector availability can therefore vary by vehicle model, model year, network, and station.

Before traveling, confirm:

• The connector built into your vehicle
• Which charging levels it supports
• Whether an adapter is needed
• Whether that adapter supports AC or DC charging
• Whether the station is open to your vehicle
• The maximum charging rate the vehicle can accept

Use only adapters and charging equipment approved by the vehicle or charging-equipment manufacturer.

A connector that physically fits through an adapter may not automatically provide every type of charging.

Locate Public Charging Stations

You can find chargers through:

• The vehicle’s navigation system
• The manufacturer’s app
• Charging-network apps
• General mapping apps
• The Department of Energy’s Alternative Fueling Station Locator
• Highway signs
• Hotel or business websites

Before relying on a station, check:

• Connector type
• Charging speed
• Number of available ports
• Recent user reports
• Operating hours
• Parking restrictions
• Price
• Network membership
• Payment methods
• Whether an adapter is required
• Whether the station is inside a restricted garage
• Whether trailers or large vehicles can access it

Have a backup station, especially during a long trip.

Understand Charging Speed

A station’s maximum advertised speed does not guarantee that your vehicle will charge at that rate.

Charging speed may be limited by:

• The vehicle’s maximum charging capability
• Battery percentage
• Battery temperature
• Weather
• Charger condition
• Shared power between stations
• Battery-protection systems

DC fast charging is often fastest when the battery is at a lower state of charge. Charging may slow as the battery becomes fuller.

For a road trip, it may be faster to charge only enough to reach the next planned stop rather than waiting for the battery to reach 100 percent.

Follow your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations for routine charging and battery care.

Prepare for Public Charging

Before leaving for an unfamiliar charger:

• Create any necessary network accounts.
• Download official apps.
• Add a payment method.
• Charge your phone.
• Bring approved adapters.
• Confirm the station’s location.
• Review the parking rules.
• Check recent station status.
• Know how much range you need.
• Identify a backup charger.

Some chargers allow credit-card or contactless payment without an account. Others may work more reliably through the network’s app.

Pulling Into a Charging Space

Before parking:

• Confirm the space is for your charging network or connector.
• Check whether charging is required.
• Check the time limit.
• Position the charging port near the cable.
• Stay within the parking lines.
• Do not block another charger.
• Leave access aisles and pedestrian routes clear.

Charging ports may be located at the:

• Front
• Rear
• Driver’s side
• Passenger’s side

Do not stretch a cable across another parking space or walking path.

Starting a Public Charging Session

The exact order varies by station.

A common process is:

1. Park and turn off the vehicle.
2. Open the charging port.
3. Confirm the connector.
4. Follow the charger’s screen or app instructions.
5. Select the correct station or port number.
6. Authorize payment.
7. Connect the cable.
8. Wait for charging to begin.
9. Confirm the session on both the charger and vehicle.

Some stations require you to plug in before authorizing payment. Others require payment first.

Do not walk away until you confirm that the vehicle is actually charging.

Confirm That Charging Has Started

Look for:

• A light near the charging port
• A dashboard message
• A station-screen confirmation
• An app notification
• An estimated completion time
• Increasing battery percentage
• A charging-power reading

A connected cable does not always mean charging has begun.

If the station displays an error, follow the troubleshooting instructions before leaving.

Paying for Public Charging

A charger may charge by:

• Kilowatt-hour
• Minute
• Session
• Parking time
• Membership plan
• A combination of these

Additional fees may include:

• Session fees
• Taxes
• Parking charges
• Garage fees
• Idle fees
• Reservation fees
• Higher nonmember rates

Review the price before beginning. A location advertised as “free charging” may still charge for parking.

The station may place a temporary authorization hold on your payment card.

Ending the Charging Session

To finish:

1. Stop the session using the app, screen, vehicle, or charger controls.
2. Wait for the connector to unlock.
3. Remove it carefully.
4. Return the cable to its holder.
5. Close the charging port.
6. Review the receipt.
7. Move the vehicle promptly.

Do not pull on the cable or force a locked connector.

Some vehicles require you to unlock the doors or press a release button before disconnecting.

Charging Etiquette

Use the charger only as long as needed and follow posted limits.

Good charging etiquette includes:

• Parking only while actively charging
• Moving the vehicle when charging is complete
• Returning the cable neatly
• Not unplugging another vehicle without permission
• Avoiding unnecessary use of fast chargers when slower charging meets your needs
• Keeping accessible routes clear
• Reporting damaged equipment
• Leaving the area clean

Idle fees may begin after charging stops.

If the Charger Does Not Work

Try these steps:

1. Read the error message.
2. Confirm that the connector is fully inserted.
3. Confirm that the station supports the vehicle.
4. Check the app or payment authorization.
5. End and restart the session.
6. Try another connector at the same station.
7. Call the network’s support number.
8. Move to a backup station if necessary.

Do not force, hit, disassemble, or attempt to repair public charging equipment.

Report:

• Station location
• Charger or port number
• Error message
• Time of the problem
• Connector type

If the Connector Will Not Release

Do not pull excessively.

Instead:

• Stop the charging session.
• Unlock the vehicle.
• Check the vehicle’s charging settings.
• Press the connector release.
• Review the owner’s manual.
• Use the manufacturer’s emergency-release procedure only as instructed.
• Contact charger or vehicle support.

The vehicle may intentionally lock the connector during charging.

Charging at Home

Home charging may use:

• A manufacturer-provided Level 1 cord
• A portable charging unit
• Permanently installed Level 2 equipment
• A wall-mounted charger

Before charging at home:

• Confirm that the outlet and circuit are appropriate.
• Inspect the cord.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Keep the connector dry and protected.
• Avoid creating a tripping hazard.
• Keep equipment away from vehicle traffic.
• Do not use damaged equipment.

Have Level 2 equipment and any necessary electrical work installed by a qualified electrician in accordance with local codes and permit requirements.

Avoid Unsafe Electrical Connections

Do not:

• Use an ordinary extension cord unless the vehicle manufacturer specifically approves it
• Use a damaged outlet
• Use loose or overheated plugs
• Defeat grounding protections
• Use unapproved adapters
• Connect multiple high-power devices to the same circuit
• Modify charging equipment
• Allow a cable to sit in standing water
• Charge through equipment showing burn marks or melted plastic

Stop charging if you notice:

• Burning odors
• Smoke
• Sparks
• Excessive heat
• Discoloration
• Repeated circuit-breaker trips
• Damage to the cord or connector

Move away and call 911 if there is a fire or immediate danger.

Charging at an Apartment or Rental Home

Before installing or regularly using charging equipment:

• Ask the property owner or manager.
• Review the lease.
• Confirm parking-space assignments.
• Learn who pays for electricity.
• Ask about permits.
• Confirm installation responsibilities.
• Discuss removal or ownership of equipment.
• Get written approval.

Do not run a charging cord across a sidewalk, hallway, or common area without an approved and properly protected setup.

Charging in Rain or Snow

Properly installed and undamaged EV charging equipment is designed for outdoor use, but you must still follow manufacturer and station instructions.

Before connecting:

• Inspect the cable and connector.
• Keep the connector out of standing water.
• Clear snow and ice from the charging port.
• Do not use damaged equipment.
• Avoid touching exposed electrical components.
• Report unsafe station conditions.

Do not attempt to dry, repair, or disassemble charging equipment while it is connected to power.

Cold-Weather Charging

Cold temperatures may:

• Reduce driving range
• Slow charging
• Increase heating use
• Affect regenerative braking
• Require battery warming

Prepare by:

• Charging before departure
• Keeping a larger range reserve
• Using scheduled departure or preconditioning
• Planning more charging time
• Checking station availability
• Following manufacturer guidance

Some vehicles can warm the battery before reaching a fast charger when the station is entered into the built-in navigation system.

Hot-Weather Charging

High temperatures may cause the vehicle or charger to reduce power to protect the battery.

In hot weather:

• Park in shade when practical.
• Follow manufacturer charging recommendations.
• Avoid blocking cooling vents.
• Keep the charging equipment unobstructed.
• Expect charging speed to vary.
• Never leave children, dependent adults, or animals unattended in the vehicle.

Charging a Plug-In Hybrid

A plug-in hybrid may continue traveling using gasoline after the electric range is used.

However, you should still:

• Charge according to the manufacturer’s guidance.
• Keep the correct gasoline in the tank.
• Monitor both fuel and battery levels.
• Use the proper connector.
• Maintain the engine and fuel system.
• Avoid allowing gasoline to become excessively old.

The vehicle’s manual will explain how often the engine should run and how to manage long periods of electric-only driving.

Planning an EV Road Trip

Before a long trip:

1. Begin with an appropriate charge.
2. Enter the destination into the vehicle or trip-planning app.
3. Identify compatible fast chargers.
4. Check recent station status.
5. Review expected charging times.
6. Include food and restroom stops.
7. Identify backup stations.
8. Allow for weather and traffic.
9. Maintain a range reserve.
10. Bring approved adapters.

Do not plan to arrive at every charger with almost no remaining range. A station may be busy, broken, blocked, closed, or incompatible.

Protecting Your Payment Information

Whether buying gas or charging:

• Use official apps.
• Verify web addresses.
• Inspect payment terminals.
• Avoid public Wi-Fi for sensitive account activity.
• Use strong passwords.
• Enable account notifications.
• Review receipts.
• Monitor bank and credit-card statements.
• Report unauthorized charges promptly.

Be suspicious of QR-code stickers placed over original payment instructions. Open the official app directly when possible.

Never provide a verification code or account password to someone who contacts you unexpectedly.

Compare the Real Cost

The displayed gasoline price is usually based on a unit such as a gallon.

EV charging prices may be based on:

• Electricity delivered
• Time connected
• Time actively charging
• Parking time
• Membership status

When comparing costs, include:

• Fuel or electricity
• Station fees
• Parking
• Tolls
• Memberships
• Idle fees
• Detours to reach the station
• Time required

A nearby charger with a higher listed rate may cost less overall than a distant charger that requires extra driving and parking fees.

Keep Records

Save receipts when you need to:

• Track transportation spending
• Request reimbursement
• Document a business trip
• Review an incorrect charge
• Monitor vehicle efficiency
• Compare stations
• Prepare taxes

A charging app may store the:

• Date
• Location
• Energy delivered
• Time connected
• Total cost

Gas receipts may fade, so photograph or scan important ones.

Final Thoughts

Buying gas and charging an electric vehicle become easier once you know what the vehicle requires and follow the same basic process each time.

For a gas-powered vehicle, confirm the fuel type and grade, turn off the engine, pay safely, remain near the pump, and stop when the nozzle shuts off automatically.

For an electric vehicle, confirm the connector and charging speed, review the price and parking rules, make sure the session actually starts, and move the vehicle when charging is complete.

Do not wait until your fuel or battery level becomes an emergency. Plan ahead, maintain a reasonable reserve, and identify another station before beginning an unfamiliar or long-distance trip.

Related Guides

• Understanding Transportation Costs
• Safe Driving Habits for Everyday Travel
• Planning a Trip Before You Leave
• Basic Car Maintenance Every Driver Should Know
• What to Do If Your Car Breaks Down
• Paying With Debit Cards, Credit Cards & Cash
• Safe Online Shopping
• Recognizing Online Scams & Phishing
• Creating Your First Budget
• Unexpected Expenses: How to Handle Them