The petrol station hack that every driver should know

The marker is usually found next to the fuel pump symbol on the gauge and points towards the side of the vehicle with the filler.

LeaseCar.uk says the tip can be useful when driving an unfamiliar car, alongside other advice on choosing fuel, avoiding spills and keeping pumps clear for other motorists.

Not every vehicle will have the arrow, so drivers who cannot see one should check the vehicle itself or its handbook before pulling up.

Gareth Roberts from LeaseCar.uk said: “From planning ahead and getting the best price on fuel to knowing which side the cap is on even when you find yourself behind the wheel of an unfamiliar vehicle, every driver can benefit from these tips.”

The company recommends planning a fuel stop before the tank is nearly empty, giving drivers time to compare prices using an app or the web rather than having to use the nearest forecourt.

It also suggests keeping access to other pumps clear when queuing, moving along where possible and leaving enough space from the vehicle ahead to manoeuvre.

Drivers should switch off their engines before filling up and should not smoke or vape on the forecourt.

First Flexi Lease advises checking the handbook or filler flap and not relying on nozzle colour alone, as conventions can vary between sites.

If the wrong fuel goes in and the engine has not been started, the RAC advises leaving the ignition off, telling station staff and calling a breakdown service.

If the engine has already been started, the RAC advises switching it off immediately if safe, or pulling over to a safe place first, and calling for help.

Another tip is to stop filling when the nozzle clicks off rather than trying to squeeze in extra fuel.

LeaseCar.uk says topping up after that point can cause spills and send liquid into parts of the fuel vapour system intended for vapour.

After replacing the nozzle, drivers should make sure the fuel cap is secure; vehicles with a capless system should have their filler flap closed properly.

For a longer shop stop, LeaseCar.uk suggests using a parking bay where available, or keeping time at the tills brief if there is no space.

Mr Roberts said: “We have all found ourselves blocked from the pump by an inconsiderate driver who refuses to move along so we feel it’s timely to also remind motorists of the etiquette everyone should observe when visiting a petrol station.”