1) Short supply
Short fueling is a common fraudulent practice that can be easily carried out if customers aren’t careful. This happens when the customer wants to refuel their vehicle for a certain amount but the gas station attendant doesn’t reset the meter, so you end up paying the full amount but getting less fuel. For example, you asked for Rs 1,000 worth of petrol, but the attendant did not reset the meter and it was already at 200. In this case, when the reading shows 1000, you have actually just been given Rs 1,000 worth of petrol. Rs 800 but paid the full amount. So, be sure to keep an eye on the meter reading as your vehicle is being refueled.
2) Electronic chips in fuel dispensing machines
Sometimes, an electronic chip is installed in fuel dispensing machines to ensure less oil is filled in but the meter will show the full amount. A similar incident was reported in Telangana in 2020, where chip-operated petrol pumps were installed that dispensed 970ml of fuel for every 1,000ml of petrol/diesel. If you are unsure about the amount of petrol, you can request a five-litre quantity check. The petrol pumps have a size of 5 liters which is certified by the Weights and Measures Department. If the five gallon petrol dispensed from the fuel dispenser is filling the gauge completely, then you can rest assured that the service station is not running out of your vehicle. This control can be implemented on all fuel machines.
3) Filling with synthetic oil without authorization
Nowadays, some gas stations have started using a new trick where they fill your vehicle with synthetic oil instead of regular fuel. Often they do this without the customer’s permission or even telling them. Since synthetic oil is 5 to 10 percent more expensive than the regular price, you may end up paying more than you’d like. So, it’s better to specifically say the petrol pump operators not to refuel the high performance fuel.
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4) Poor quality of petrol
In case you doubt the quality of the gasoline, which is filled into your vehicle, you can request an engine filter paper test. According to the Consumer Protection Act 1986, every petrol pump should have filter paper and supply it to consumers when needed. To know whether the petrol is adulterated or not, put some drops of petrol on the filter paper, if it leaves any stains then the petrol is adulterated and if not then the petrol is pure. Bad quality fuel can damage your vehicle in a number of ways. It could reduce vehicle efficiency and even shorten the life of the engine and its components.
5) Check petrol price
Make sure you check the price of petrol when you enter a gas station. The petrol pump dealer is not authorized to overcharge the fuel. So, it’s best to compare the actual price with the price displayed on the fuel dispenser. Also, ask for a cash reminder for your gas purchase.
