Is your filler cap now on the left or right?
You will have already noticed when you change your car that the filler cap is not always in the same place. But how exactly does this happen? And how can you easily find out where your filler cap is while you are still driving? The latter can be very convenient with a new car when you are just driving up to the petrol station. After all, you’d rather not go back to moving your car while everyone is watching ? .
Tips
Why is the fuel cap on one car on the left and another on the right?
Whether your petrol cap is on the right or left depends on the brand you drive. In countries where aar cars with the steering wheel on the left side are common, the fuel cap is usually on the right side of the car. This was done for safety and convenience reasons. In Europe, where the steering wheel is on the left side, manufacturers placed the filler cap on the right side, which usually allowed motorists to fill up quietly without traffic racing past them. Moreover, this prevented the driver’s door from hitting the pump when opening the door. Driving direction was also taken into account: in cars where people drive on the right, it is easier to turn right and drive straight to the pump.
On the other hand, flow at petrol stations was also considered, especially at smaller stations with only one pump and one direction of travel. If every car in a country had the fuel cap on the same side, this could lead to inefficiency, resulting in long waiting times. Therefore, some brands have chosen to place the fuel cap on the opposite side, making it easier for motorists to fill up on both sides of the pump. This ensures optimal utilisation of the pump and reduces waiting times. For some brands, this was even an additional selling point when buying a new car.
Indications to know whether your cap is on the right or left
Use the dashboard icon
Many modern cars are equipped with a dashboard icon that indicates which side of the car the filler cap is on. This icon is usually a small image of a car with an arrow pointing left or right, depending on the location of the filler cap. Look on your dashboard for this symbol before filling up.
Pay attention to the petrol pump
If you are already at the petrol station and are not sure which side to park on, look at the petrol pump. Most pumps have a hose that is longer on one side than the other. The long side of the hose points to the side where your fuel cap is. This is because most fuel caps are on the driver’s side in countries where cars drive on the left, like the Netherlands.
Look at the direction of traffic
If you are still not sure, look at the direction of traffic on the road you are driving. In countries where cars drive on the left, the fuel cap is usually on the left side of the car. In countries where cars drive on the right, the fuel cap is usually on the right side. This is because it is more convenient to refuel on the side of traffic to reduce the risk of an accident.
Consult the manual
If you are still in doubt, grab your car’s manual. It often contains specific information about the location of the fuel cap. The manual may also contain other useful tips and tricks specific to your car.
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