Be truthful. Filling up your vehicle is not very entertaining. But whether you are going out of town for a beach trip to Atlantic Beach or simply commuting in Greenville, your ability to safely and easily pump gas can make a difference. Not only can it prevent expensive and unsafe mistakes that you may encounter at the pump, but it may also save you some dollars over time.
At Barbour Hendrick Honda, we don’t just sell and service awesome vehicles; we also help you be a more educated driver. So, put down those keys, and possibly a snack, because we are going to dive into some gas station education that might be useful for all drivers out there.
Pump Safely: Protecting Yourself and Your Vehicle
Even though pumping gas feels routine, safety should always come first. Here are a few key practices to keep you and your ride out of harm’s way.
Essential Safety Practices
- Kill the Engine: Before you even think about picking up that pump, turn off your car. Fuel vapors and a running engine don’t mix well – static discharge or stray sparks can be dangerous.
- Pocket the Phone: We know – it’s tempting to scroll while you pump. While there’s no proven link between cell phones and pump fires, it’s still wise to avoid distractions and limit electronics use during fueling. If you need to use your phone to pay, handle the transaction, and then stash it.
- Ground Yourself: Static electricity is crafty. Before touching the nozzle, be sure to touch a metal part of your car to discharge any buildup. It’s an easy step to prevent a sudden spark.
- Stay Right There, Stay Outside: The pump area shouldn’t be left unattended. Don’t get in your car once you start filling. That is just a quick way to build some static and transfer it to the nozzle. Besides that, you should not leave your vehicle unattended while it is being filled, and you should always be aware of your surroundings.
- No Flames: This is common sense: Don’t smoke or use anything with an open flame near gas pumps. The vapors are highly flammable, and all it takes is your carelessness and one puff.
Protecting Against Threats from Outside
- Lock it Up: Just lock your doors when you are filling your vehicle. It takes just a second to do, and it will discourage a thief from looking at your valuables.
- Inspect the Card Reader: Card skimmers are real. Please take a moment to inspect the card reader at the pump. Is it bulging, loose, or “just not right”? If anything looks suspicious, just go inside and pay.
Post-Fueling Hygiene
- Give it a Tap: Once you’re done fueling, give the nozzle a gentle tap inside the tank opening to prevent drips. A cleaner fill means fewer fumes and less waste.
- Clean Hands, Clear Conscience: Gas pump handles are germ magnets. Between fuel residue and who-knows-how-many hands, it’s best to wash up after every visit – or at least keep some hand sanitizer in the console.
Pump Savvy: Saving Money on Gas
As of July 2025, the national gas average is approximately $3.16 per gallon, and while prices in North Carolina tend to hover just below that, every cent adds up. Here’s how to keep more money in your wallet.
Optimizing Driving Habits
- Take it Easy on the Pedal: Aggressive acceleration and sudden stopping can void your MPG stats. Smooth, even driving can not only help you be more efficient, but it will also make you more comfortable.
- Use Cruise Control when Possible: Using cruise control helps maintain a steady speed on flat highways. A steady speed will reduce the amount of fuel used to maintain a speed. Just remember to turn it off on hills and sideways-slippery roads.
Vehicle Maintenance for Efficiency
- Tire Pressure is Important: Under-inflated tires create drag and reduce fuel efficiency. Keep an eye on your tire pressure every month and set it to the manufacturer’s recommendation. This also keeps you safe and helps to prolong tire life.
- Tune Ups Matter: Regular oil changes, clean air filters, and engine maintenance can help improve your MPG. A quick stop at our Barbour Hendrick Honda Service Center will help make your tank last.
Smart Fuel Choices and Shopping
- Stick with Regular – Unless Your Car Says Otherwise: Unless your vehicle requires premium gas (check the manual!), you’re probably just wasting money at the higher-octane pump. Most modern Honda models are designed to run efficiently on regular unleaded gasoline.
- Use Apps – But Don’t Go Overboard: Apps like GasBuddy can help you find low prices nearby, but don’t burn more gas chasing savings. If a better price is along your usual route, great! If not, the detour might not be worth it.
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Final Thoughts from Barbour Hendrick Honda
We know gas prices and pump safety aren’t the flashiest topics, but they’re worth your attention. By fueling smart, you can protect yourself, stretch your gas money, and make every fill-up work harder for you.
Looking to upgrade to a fuel-efficient Honda or need a maintenance check? Swing by Barbour Hendrick Honda in Greenville, NC. We’ll help you drive smarter – on the road, at the pump, and beyond.
Safe travels, and happy fueling.
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