Filling at the Pump - Overfueling, not the saving you think.

So how am I damaging the engine?

If you fill past the point that the petrol pump clicks off you run the risk of fuel going into your charcoal canister and causing damage to your car's EVAP system. This is an expensive repair and while you might not notice it straight away the more you do this the more damage you will cause. Do not attempt to top off the tank after the nozzle clicks off, as it can damage the vapor recovery system.

With no room left for expansion there is no room left for fuel to expand which can lead to high pressure within the system. This can create dangerous conditions not only for you but also others.

Always remember to shut the fuel cap securely after filling your car to prevent not only fuel spillage but also to prevent your petrol vapours from escaping into the environment.

So how do I know I have damaged my EVAP, is there a dashboard warning?

Like we say, you might not notice it straight away, but the first sign that something is wrong can be trouble filling your car up. This is because you have gotten fuel in the canister and it can no longer trap vapour.

You might get the dreaded Check Engine Light on your dash. (insert dum dum dum music) Which will bring you to a garage for a service and you might get the mechanic doing the drawn in breath while they shake their head and deliver the bad news.

Or you might not notice till you get to the NCT check and your car fails on emissions, which is a direct result of failing the emissions test due to EVAP system damage. Passing this test is crucial for your car to remain road legal, and EVAP issues are a common reason for test failures, leading to another stop on the way to the garage for repairs..

You can find more information about the damage that can be caused in multiple sources online, you can also speak to your mechanic when you are in for your next service or give us a call if you are worried because you notice some of these signs in your car.

Environmental Impact

When you pull up to the petrol station and reach for the pump machine, it’s easy to focus on the price per litre especially with the cost of petrol and diesel on the rise. But consider the environmental impact of refuelling your vehicle. Whether you’re a new driver or have years of experience behind the wheel, the way we fill our fuel tanks can have lasting effects on the world around us.

Every time you fill your tank, whether with unleaded, super unleaded, or diesel, there’s more at stake than just the price at the pump. The production, storage, and transportation of oil products contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, which affect air quality and play a crucial role in climate change. Even at the local level, spills or leaks from the pump or fuel cap can seep into the ground, potentially contaminating soil and water. For example, a small spill at a busy petrol station can add up over time, impacting both the environment and the health of nearby communities.

In Ireland, strict regulations are in place to ensure that petrol stations operate safely and responsibly. Secure storage tanks, regular testing, and spill containment systems are now standard, helping to protect both customers and the environment. Many stations are also adopting greener practices, such as offering super unleaded and biofuels, installing solar panels, and using energy-efficient lighting to reduce their carbon footprint.

As drivers, there are simple steps we can take to minimise our impact. Always make sure your fuel cap is securely closed after filling to prevent vapours from escaping. These vapours are damaging to the environment, which is why emissions and oil temperature are checked in an NCT. More information on this can be found here on the NCT site.

Avoid overfilling your tank—when the nozzle clicks, that’s your signal to stop. Not only does this protect your engine, but it also reduces the risk of fuel spilling onto the ground. Choosing petrol stations that offer rewards for eco-friendly choices or using a fuel card can also encourage more sustainable driving habits.

It’s also worth noting that accidentally using the wrong type of fuel can damage your engine and lead to increased emissions, so always double-check the pump and nozzle before filling. Regular vehicle maintenance and adopting fuel-efficient driving techniques can further reduce your environmental footprint.