Running out of gas can be inconvenient, but with some patience and resourcefulness, you can safely resolve the situation. Here are some useful English vocabulary to fill up a tank gas:
- “Fill it up, please.”
- “Regular, please.”
- “I’d like to top it off, please.”
- “Can I get a full tank?”
- “Regular unleaded, please.”
- “Fill ‘er up with premium, please.”
- “Can you top off the tank, please?”
- “Regular, halfway, please.”
- “I’ll take a full tank of diesel, please.”
- “Fill it to the brim, please.”
- “Can I get a fill-up on pump number [insert pump number]?”
- “Just a half tank, please.”
- “Can you put $20 worth in, please?”
- “Fill it up with supreme, please.”
- “Premium, please, and top it off.”
Image by Alexander Fox | PlaNet Fox from Pixabay
Here’s a short conversation between a customer and a gas station attendant:
Customer: Hi there, can you fill it up with regular, please?
Attendant: Of course, regular unleaded. Would you like anything else?
Customer: No, that’s it, thanks.
Attendant: Alright, it’ll be $65.50. Would you like a receipt?
Customer: Yes, please.
Attendant: Alright, your total is $65.50. Please insert your card when you’re ready.
(Customer inserts card and completes the transaction)
Customer: Thanks, have a great day!
Attendant: You too, drive safe!
Some ideas on how to fill a gas tank in the United States:
At the Gas Station:
- Turn off your engine and put the car in park. It’s important to turn off your car to avoid any safety hazards.
- Locate your gas tank. Most cars in the US have the gas tank on the driver’s side, but consult your car’s manual if you’re unsure. There’s usually a small indicator on your dashboard that shows which side the gas tank is on.
- Open the gas tank door. You’ll find a button or lever inside the car, typically near the driver’s seat, that will release the latch.
- Choose a pump. Look for the type of gas your car requires (usually regular, mid-grade, or premium). This information can be found in your owner’s manual or on a sticker inside your gas tank door. Diesel fuel pumps will have a larger nozzle and are clearly marked.
- Pick up the gas pump nozzle. Some stations require you to swipe your credit card or debit card at the pump first to authorize payment.
Filling Up:
- Insert the nozzle all the way into the gas tank opening. You might hear a clicking sound when it’s inserted correctly.
- Squeeze the trigger on the nozzle to start pumping gas. The pump will automatically shut off when the tank is full, so you don’t need to hold the trigger down. Don’t try to fill past the automatic shutoff, as it can damage your car.
- Once the pump stops, carefully remove the nozzle and return it to the pump holster.
Paying:
- Credit/Debit Card: If you paid at the pump, you’re done! You can take your receipt that prints out from the machine.
- Cash: If you want to pay with cash, you’ll need to go inside the gas station convenience store and tell the cashier the pump number you used.
Additional Tips:
- Be aware of your surroundings and practice general safety precautions while at the gas station.
- Don’t smoke or use your phone while pumping gas.
- If you accidentally pump the wrong type of gas into your car, don’t start the engine. Turn it off immediately and call for assistance.
