When you hire a car, one of the most important things to consider is refuelling. Understanding how refuelling policies work for hire cars, what options you have and how to avoid additional charges will help you enjoy a worry-free hire experience. In this article, we tell you everything you need to know about refuelling hire cars.

Car hire companies usually offer different fuel policies to suit the needs of each customer. Below, we explain the most common options:

1. Full/Full

This is the most popular and beneficial policy for customers.

• How it works: You collect the car with a full tank and return it with a full tank.
• Advantages: You only pay for the fuel you actually use, provided you refuel before returning the vehicle.
• Tip: Be sure to refuel at a petrol station near the drop-off point to avoid charges for low fuel.

2. Full/Empty

In this mode, you receive the car with a full tank and return it empty.

• How it works: You pay for fuel in advance when you pick up the car.
• Advantages: You don’t have to worry about refuelling before returning it.
• Disadvantages: It is difficult to calculate how much fuel you will use, and if you return the car with petrol in the tank, you will not be reimbursed for the surplus.

3. Same level/Same level

This policy means collecting and returning the car with the same fuel level.

• How it works: If, for example, the car has half a tank of fuel when you pick it up, you must return it with the same amount.
• Advantages: It is flexible and avoids paying for a full deposit if you are not going to use it.
• Disadvantages: It can be difficult to get the exact level right when refuelling.

Refuelling your hire car correctly will not only save you from unpleasant surprises, but it can also save you money. Here are some key tips:

1. Check the type of fuel

Before setting off, make sure you know what type of fuel the car uses (diesel or petrol). This information is usually indicated in the rental agreement, on the fuel cap or in the vehicle manual. Using the wrong fuel can cause serious damage to the engine and will result in high costs that you will have to pay.

2. Search for petrol stations near the drop-off point.

If your fuel policy is Full/Full, look for petrol stations near where you will be returning the car. This will ensure that you return it with a full tank and avoid additional charges for incomplete refuelling.

3. Keep the receipt from the petrol station.

When refuelling, keep the receipt. Some rental companies may ask for it as proof that you have refuelled before returning the vehicle.

4. Avoid refuelling on motorways

Petrol stations on motorways tend to have higher prices than those located in urban or rural areas. If you want to save money, look for a petrol station off the motorway before returning the car.

If you do not return the car with the agreed fuel level, the rental company will refuel it for you. However, it is important to note:

• Additional charges: Companies often apply higher rates per litre of fuel as part of their refuelling service.
• Penalty policy: Some contracts also include a fixed fee for not returning the car with the appropriate fuel level.

To avoid these charges, it is essential to understand the fuel policy in your contract and plan your refuelling in advance.

At Yellow Car, we offer clear fuel policies tailored to your needs to make your experience as simple and transparent as possible. Our goal is for you to enjoy your trip without any complications. Some of the advantages we offer include:

• Full/Full Policy: The fairest and most economical option for our customers.
• Personalised advice: We help you understand the terms of your contract and choose the best option for your rental.
• Efficient vehicles: Our fleet includes modern, fuel-efficient cars to make your journey more economical and sustainable.

Refuelling rental cars is essential to avoid unnecessary expenses and ensure a smooth experience. With clear policies such as those offered by Yellow Car and by following the advice in this article, you can enjoy your trip with complete peace of mind.

If you are planning to hire a car, please do not hesitate to contact us. At Yellow Car, we work to make your experience easy, transparent and tailored to your needs.