In the past, there was only one way to get fuel. You would drive into a gas station, the gas attendant would pump fuel into your tank, you would pay, and you would drive off. Not anymore. Gas stations have evolved thanks to technology and the economy. There are now two types of services: full service and self-service. To help you differentiate them, let’s first look at what is a full-service gas station?
A full-service gas station is a gas station that has attendants who will pump your gas. The attendant may also provide extra services, such as wiping your car’s windshield and checking water and oil levels.
Keep reading to learn more about the advantages of full-service gas stations, how to find one, and the difference between full-service vs self-service gas stations.
Contents
What is Full-Service Gas Station?
It is a gas station with attendants on standby to serve customers. They will fill your tank and provide additional services such as washing your windows and checking oil and water levels.
In case they detect a problem, most are qualified to handle it. If not, they will offer you sound advice on what to do. Gas station attendants can also help process your payment if you are using a card.
How Do You Use a Full-Service Gas Station?
It works in a similar fashion to the traditional gas station. You only need to drive into the station and let the attendant know how much gas you need.
The attendant will pump the needed amount into your tank as you sit and wait. You will then be required to pay for the gas using either a card or cash. Once the payment is made, you drive off.
Should You Tip Full-Service Gas Attendants?
It is advisable to tip full-service gas attendants, but it’s not mandatory. Most gas station attendants have low wages or salaries; thus, tips can go a long way in boosting their income. Besides, considering that they do additional checks for free, it would only be fair to give a token of appreciation.
You may tip a full-service gas attendant $1 -2 if they pump your gas and clean your windows. If they check your tires, oil, and water levels, a $5 tip is appropriate.
What is a Self-Service Gas Station?
Just as its name suggests, it is a gas station where you do all the work. You will fill your tank, wipe your windshield, check your tires, check water and oil levels, et cetera. Attendants, if any, are only available to make change or sell products such as lubrication. They are only obligated to help you pump gas if you are physically challenged.
Full-Service vs. Self-Service Gas Station
Some drivers prefer full-service gas stations because they get to do the minimum. You do not need to get out of the car and go through the hassle of filling your tank. Moreover, the pump attendant may go the extra mile and check your tires or clean your windshield.
On the downside, full-service gas stations may charge more for fuel as they have to factor in the attendants’ salaries. Moreover, you may need to tip the attendant occasionally out of courtesy.
Self-service gas stations are the exact opposite of full-service gas stations. Since there are minimal labor costs, such stations can afford to lower their gasoline prices and still make a profit. This makes them popular among motorists seeking to save an extra penny.
On the flip side, self-service stations are considered unsafe. Compared to attendants, customers are more likely to disregard smoking rules. Careless smoking around gas pumps can lead to fire and explosion hazards.
Other disadvantages include:
- Unspotted defects and repairs: Some drivers are not experts at vehicles; thus, there are bound to be unspotted defects and repairs. These may put the driver and other motorists at risk.
- Elderly or physically challenged drivers may find it hard to serve themselves.
- Insecurity: There have been many insecurity cases at self-service gas stations compared to full-service gas stations. Most cases comprise car robberies when the driver is busy at the pump. Thieves often take the opportunity to sneak into the car and quickly drive away.
Comparing the two types of stations, full-service gas stations are generally considered a much better option as they have fewer demerits.
How to Locate Full Service Gas Station?
A few years ago, full-service gas stations were the standard. Now, more and more businesses are opting for self-service stations. Most people would rather save money than sit back and enjoy a gas station attendant’s services. This translates to a massive demand for self-service stations.
Lesser in the market makes it harder to find a full-service gas station. Not to worry, some apps, such as fuel service, can enable you to find one quickly.
FAQs
Are full-service gas stations still around?
Yes. But they are few. Self-service gas stations currently dominate the market.
Why are Oregon gas stations full-service?
There is a law against self-service at gas stations in Oregon. Thus, full-service gas stations are the only option.
Why can't you pump your gas in Oregon and New Jersey?
It is against the law to have a customer fill their tank. The basis of the law is that self-service increases fire hazards and poses a challenge for the elderly and drivers with disabilities. It also contributes to job losses.
Do full-service gas stations check tire pressure?
Yes. Attendants at full gas stations will check your tire condition and pressure. While they’re at it, they may offer to increase the tire pressure at no extra charge.
Final Word
Like in the past, you can still fill your tank while sitting and waiting in the car. However, the luxury is only available in a few locations, as full-service gas stations are becoming increasingly scarce.
Their competitors, self-service gas stations, offer cheaper fuel, which most drivers prefer. The stiff competition makes it harder for full-service gas stations to stay in business.
References:
For over ten years, Eric has served as a manager, advisor, and marketer in the retail and consumer service sector. Moreover, he is the head writer and managing editor at thestoregeeks.com. Eric is a father of two and an avid shopping geek.
