British drivers could be throwing away hundreds of pounds every year by making a simple mistake when filling up their petrol or diesel vehicle. According to experts, continuing to fill up a tank after the fuel pump automatically clicks off could backfire with fuel likely to disappear.
Many will simply believe that squeezing in a little extra fuel could be a good thing and help stretch journeys even further. However, in reality, this can waste petrol with fuel likely to simply evaporate or overflow instead of adding to mileage. Even wasting half a litre a week through topping off incorrectly could equate to around £50–£60 per year.
Road users are also at risk of damaging key components, which could see motorists forced to pay out hundreds on repairs.
A spokesperson for Plates Express said: “When the pump nozzle clicks, it’s because the tank is full and the system has detected rising fuel levels. Forcing more in doesn’t increase your mileage – it often causes fuel to evaporate or overflow, which is money literally disappearing into thin air.”
The experts explain that all fuel pumps at UK petrol stations are fitted with automatic shut-off mechanisms. It means that once a fuel tank reaches capacity, the nozzle stops the flow of petrol or diesel.
They add that any excess fuel will often spill into the car’s vapour recovery system, a component fitted to capture harmful fumes. Overfilling can damage this system, with repairs likely to set road users back anywhere between £150 and £500.
According to specialists, UK motorists who regularly top off could be losing £200–£300 annually simply due to wasted fuel and avoidable repairs.
Plates Express said: “Drivers often think they’re getting value by filling to the brim, but much of that extra fuel doesn’t stay in the tank. It’s either vented, wasted, or risks causing long-term damage.”
According to RAC Fuel Watch, Unleaded petrol fee now stands at 135p per litre, up from the 132p per litre recorded earlier this summer. Diesel fees were also up at 142.92p per litre, an increase on the 132p per litre average which was sold to consumers back in June.
They added: “Filling up should be about efficiency, not forcing every drop in. Stop at the first click, and you’ll protect both your wallet and your car.”