With gas prices still hitting painful highs in places like California, every fill-up feels like it matters a little more. Most people focus on where to find the cheapest gas, but what often gets overlooked is how you’re fueling.

The truth is, many drivers have small habits at the pump that quietly cost them money. Some waste fuel, some lead to unnecessary wear on your car, and others just add up over time without you noticing. None of them seems like a big deal in the moment, but over months, they can easily cost you more than you think. If you’re already paying more per gallon, it’s worth making sure you’re not making these common mistakes.

Fueling Car — Image Credit: Santeri Viinamäki, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Using Premium Fuel When You Don’t Need It

Premium gas sounds like the better option, but for most cars, it’s not necessary. If your vehicle is designed for regular fuel, using premium won’t improve performance or mileage. All it does is increase the cost of every fill-up. Try sticking with the fuel grade your car actually requires.

Topping Off After the Pump Clicks

Once the nozzle clicks, your tank is full. Trying to squeeze in a little extra doesn’t give you more usable fuel. It just increases the risk of overflow or of fuel entering your car’s vapor system.

In many cases, that extra gas doesn’t even stay in your tank. It can evaporate or get redirected back into the station’s system, meaning you paid for something you won’t use.

Running Your Tank Too Low

Letting your tank drop to empty might seem like you’re getting the most out of every gallon, but it can actually cost you more in the long run. Your fuel pump relies on gasoline to stay cool.

When you regularly drive on low, it works harder and can wear out faster. You’re also more likely to pull in debris from the bottom of the tank.

Filling Up While a Tanker Is Refilling the Station

If you’ve ever pulled into a station and seen a fuel truck unloading, it might be worth going somewhere else. When underground tanks are being filled, sediment can get stirred up. That debris can end up in your tank, potentially affecting performance over time. Try coming back later or choose a different station.

Leaving Your Engine Running While Fueling

It might seem harmless to leave your car running, especially for a quick stop, but it’s both unsafe and wasteful. Gas vapors are flammable, and idling burns fuel without getting you anywhere. It’s a small habit, but one that adds up, especially with today’s prices. Turn off your engine every time you fill up.

Falling for “Pump Slower to Save Money” Myths

There’s a popular idea that pumping gas slowly somehow gets you more fuel for your money. It doesn’t. Gas pumps measure volume, not speed. Whether you pump fast or slow, you’re paying for the same amount. Better habit: Pump normally and don’t overthink it.

Ignoring a Faulty Pump

If a pump keeps stopping, sputtering, or barely flowing, it’s not worth dealing with. A faulty nozzle can lead to incomplete fills or frustration that wastes your time, and sometimes your money. Better habit: Switch pumps and let the station know.

Forgetting to Tighten Your Gas Cap

A loose or missing gas cap can trigger a check engine light and allow fuel vapors to escape. That means wasted fuel and potential issues with your car’s emissions system.

Filling Up at the Most Expensive Times

Gas prices can shift throughout the week, and filling up during peak travel times or right before weekends can sometimes cost you more. It’s not always a huge difference, but when prices are already high, every bit counts.

Skipping Rewards and Discounts

A lot of drivers ignore gas rewards programs or grocery store fuel discounts, even though they’re easy ways to save. It may only be a few cents per gallon, but over time, that adds up.

Overloading Your Car

Extra weight in your car makes your engine work harder, which means burning more fuel. If your trunk is full of things you don’t actually need, you’re paying for it at the pump. Better habit: Keep your car as light as possible.

Not Paying Attention to Tire Pressure

Tire pressure might not seem related to fueling, but it directly impacts gas mileage. Underinflated tires create more resistance, which means your car has to use more fuel to move.

Not Checking for the Cheapest Gas Nearby

It’s easy to stick with the closest gas station out of habit, but convenience doesn’t always mean you’re getting the best price. Gas prices can vary quite a bit even within a few miles, and those small differences add up over time.