Quick Summary
- The correct fuel for your vehicle is always written on the fuel flap, dashboard stickers or handbook; never guess at the pump.
- Most US rental vehicles use regular unleaded petrol, but some larger models, pickups and vans may require premium grades or diesel.
- Hola Car Rentals helps you choose the right vehicle type and explains fuel policies clearly, reducing the risk of misfuelling costs at the end of your trip.
Start by checking the vehicle, not the pump
Imagine you have just arrived in Los Angeles and are heading along the freeway to the Pacific Coast Highway. After a long flight it is easy to reach the first petrol station, see several pump options and feel unsure what to choose. Before touching the nozzle, look at the inside of the fuel flap or a small sticker near the gauge. When you collect a vehicle booked with Hola Car Rentals, the car will show whether it needs normal unleaded, premium or diesel.
On many compact and mid size models you will see a label that simply says unleaded only. In that case, when you stop during a car rental from Los Angeles Airport you can safely choose regular unleaded petrol, normally the cheapest grade on the pump. There is no benefit in paying more for high octane fuel unless the label specifically mentions premium only.
Petrol, diesel and other fuels in the United States
Most holiday makers in the USA drive petrol powered vehicles. Diesel is more common in larger pick up trucks and commercial vans, although some SUVs may also use it. If your vehicle is diesel, the label inside the flap will say diesel only and the filler neck may be a different size from petrol models.
At the pump you will often see several grades of petrol, each with a different octane rating. Regular is usually enough for standard engines. Mid grade and premium fuels cost more and are only necessary if the vehicle handbook or flap label calls for a higher octane. Using a higher grade than required does not damage the engine, but it does increase your running costs for no real benefit.
You may also see pumps marked with E85 or flex fuel. Do not use these unless the vehicle specifically says it is flex fuel compatible. Choosing the wrong mixture can cause performance issues and may lead to expensive repairs that are not covered by standard damage waivers.
How to avoid misfuelling problems
Misfuelling, such as putting petrol into a diesel engine, can be very expensive. The safest habit is to read the label every single time you refuel, even if you think you remember. This is especially important on a long trip that takes you from the hills around San Francisco down to the coast, where you might top up several times in unfamiliar stations.
When you hire through Hola Car Rentals you will always receive local contact numbers. If you realise that you have chosen the wrong fuel or suspect a mistake, stop refuelling immediately and call the roadside assistance number on your paperwork. Do not start the engine before getting advice, as driving the vehicle after misfuelling can make the damage much worse.
To keep costs predictable, consider where you fill up. Fuel stations near airports and remote tourist spots can be noticeably more expensive. Planning a scenic loop that includes towns just off the main tourist routes, for example when you plan San Francisco Bay area drives or New York city breaks, often gives access to more competitively priced petrol.
Fuel policies and insurance with Hola Car Rentals
Beyond choosing the right octane, make sure you understand how much fuel to leave in the tank when you return the vehicle. Many offers sold by Hola Car Rentals use a full to full policy. You collect the car with a full tank and return it full, paying only for the fuel you actually use. Some suppliers offer other policies, such as pre purchase with partial refund, where you pay for a full tank at the start and receive money back for unused fuel based on the gauge reading.
With All Inclusive plus coverage from Hola Car Rentals you can secure strong protection limits and often reduce your excess on damage charges. However, intentional misfuelling is usually not covered by damage waivers, so it is still important to read labels carefully. For a deeper look at how protection works in practice, our New York insurance guide explains how rental insurance and local rules interact.
Whatever combination of vehicle and cover you choose, Hola Car Rentals clearly displays fuel policy, insurance and deposit conditions during the booking process, so you know what to expect before you pick up the keys.
FAQs
What happens if I put the wrong fuel in my rental vehicle?
If you think you have used the wrong fuel, stop filling immediately and contact roadside assistance or the number on your Hola Car Rentals voucher. Do not drive the vehicle until you receive instructions. The supplier may need to drain the tank and inspect the engine, and you may be responsible for associated costs.
Can I choose premium petrol even if the car only needs regular?
Yes, premium petrol will not harm a standard engine, but it usually costs more and will not deliver a noticeable benefit for normal holiday driving. Unless the vehicle specifically calls for higher octane fuel, regular unleaded is usually the most cost effective choice.
How do I know whether my vehicle uses petrol or diesel?
The easiest way is to read the sticker inside the fuel flap or on the fuel cap. It will clearly state petrol unleaded only or diesel only. You can also check the fuel section of the vehicle handbook in the glove box or ask staff at the pick up location.
Do electric or hybrid rentals need different refuelling rules?
Electric and plug in hybrid models are becoming more common in cities such as Los Angeles and San Francisco. With these vehicles you may need to plan public charging stops instead of petrol stations. Hola Car Rentals will specify whether your vehicle is fully electric, hybrid or petrol only and explain the relevant policies in your quote.
Will the tank be full when I collect the vehicle?
In many cases yes, especially when you choose a full to full policy. You should always check the gauge before leaving the car park and note the level on the condition report. If it is not full, the agent will mark this so that you only need to match the same level when returning.
For a smooth journey, from the first refuelling stop to the final return, book your next United States adventure with Hola Car Rentals and enjoy clear fuel rules, strong protection and friendly support at every stage.
