Your Guide to Fueling a Rental Car in France
The Freedom of the French Roads (and the One Small Hurdle)
There are few greater travel joys than exploring France by car. The freedom to discover hidden villages and scenic viewpoints at your own pace is unparalleled. But for many first-time visitors, this dream is punctuated by one small, nagging question: How do I put gas in the car?
First Things First: What Fuel Does Your Rental Car Drink?
This is the single most important step. Using the wrong fuel can cause catastrophic engine damage, resulting in a ruined holiday and a bill for thousands of euros. Before you even think about lifting a pump nozzle, you must be 100% certain of the fuel your car requires.
Three Primary Sources for Fuel Information:
Inside the Fuel Filler Door
This is the most reliable source. Open the little door on the side of the car that covers the gas cap (the trappe à carburant). There will be a sticker clearly indicating the required fuel.
The Car's Keychain
Rental companies often attach a tag to the car keys specifying the fuel type.
The Rental Agreement
Your rental paperwork should list the vehicle's details, including the fuel it uses.
Diesel (Gazole)
The most common cause of confusion for North American drivers. In France, diesel is called Gazole. It is NOT gasoline.
Unleaded Gasoline (Sans Plomb)
The general term for unleaded gasoline is Sans Plomb (SP), which literally means "Without Lead."
The Main Event: Step-by-Step Guide at the Pump
Park Correctly
Park your car with the fuel tank on the same side as the correct pump.Turn Off Engine
Turn off the engine completely.Open Fuel Door
Open the fuel filler door and unscrew the gas cap.Check Pump Type
Look at the pump. Does it have a screen asking for payment first? If so, it's an automated pump.Select Correct Nozzle
Firmly lift the correct nozzle (pistolet) for your fuel type from its cradle. Double-check the label on the pump.Insert Nozzle
Insert the nozzle fully into the car's fuel tank and squeeze the handle. The pump will automatically click and shut off when the tank is full.Replace Nozzle
Return the nozzle securely to its holster on the pump.Secure Cap
Screw your fuel cap back on until it clicks, and close the filler door.Proceed to Payment
Proceed to payment.
Choosing Your Pit Stop: Station Types Comparison
| Station Type | Price Level | Payment Method | Convenience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supermarket Stations | €€ (Cheapest) | Chip & PIN Only | Town outskirts |
| Highway Service Stations | €€€€ (Most Expensive) | All Types | 24/7, on highway |
| Local Brand-Name Stations | €€€ (Mid-range) | Manned Days | Limited hours |
Payment Methods: Manned vs Automated
You fill your tank first, then walk inside to the kiosk and tell the cashier your pump number ("Pompe numéro cinq"). You can pay with any credit card, debit card, or cash.
These machines almost exclusively require a Chip & PIN card. Many cards from North America are Chip & Signature and will be rejected.
Pre-authorization Hold
Expect a large pre-authorization hold of €120-€150 on your card. This is normal and will be corrected to the actual amount.
Your French Fuelling Cheat Sheet
| French | Pronunciation | English |
|---|---|---|
| Gazole | gah-zohl | Diesel |
| Sans Plomb | sohn plohm | Unleaded |
| Pistolet | pees-toh-lay | Pump nozzle |
| Caisse | kess | Cash desk/kiosk |
| Le Plein | luh plan | A full tank |
Quick Phrase:
"Faire le plein, s'il vous plaît." - "Fill it up, please."
Drive On with Confidence
Refuelling a car in France is a small logistical task, not a barrier to your adventure. By confirming your fuel type, choosing a station that suits your needs, and being prepared for the payment system, you'll find the process is quick and easy.
Now you're ready to hit the road and enjoy your French adventure. Bonne route!