Petrol Pump Scams: Are you also being cheated at the petrol pump? Save yourself from financial loss by using these simple tips.
Petrol Pump Scams : Having a two-wheeler or a four-wheeler has become a necessity for everyone these days. However, complaints are constantly coming up that common citizens are being cheated on a large scale while filling petrol or diesel in the car. Often due to employee’s sleight of hand, technical malfunction in machines or adulterated fuel, customers suffer huge financial losses. We pay in full, but do we get adequate and clean fuel in return? This is a big question. It is imperative that you as a consumer know your rights and easy ways to stop this robbery at petrol pumps and ensure you get the right fuel. So let’s find out about it…
It is mandatory to check ‘Zero’ (0.00) at the beginning
The first and easiest step when refueling is to check the number on the machine’s screen. Make sure the machine’s display reads 0.00 before the employee lifts the nozzle. Often the pump attendants start refilling petrol from there without deleting the previous customer’s reading. When they see that you are aware, the employees don’t dare to do such tricks. Petrol Pump Scams
Choose odd (fractional) amounts instead of round figures
Most consumers pay petrol in round figure amounts like 100, 500, 1000 or 2000 to save time. However, some fraudulent pumps may already have a code or chip set in the machine for such certain numbers, which results in less fuel. To avoid this risk always try to fill fuel in odd or fractional numbers like 115, 520, 830 or 7.5 litres, 3.2 litres. Petrol Pump Scams
Check fuel purity and density
The most scientific way to know whether the petrol you are getting is pure or not, is to check its density. The digital machine at the petrol pump has a ‘Density’ counter. According to government regulations, density of good quality petrol should be between 730 to 800 kg/m³ and diesel should be between 830 to 900 kg/m³. If the display shows a lower or higher number than this, it is highly likely that the fuel is adulterated. Petrol Pump Scams
Identify employee distraction tactics
While refueling, one attendant often distracts you by talking to you, fussing over loose change or card payments, while another attends to the fuel without deleting the previous reading. Sometimes the fuel flow is stopped by repeatedly pressing the nozzle button, which is called ‘air lock’. Always get off the vehicle while refueling and keep your full attention on the machine’s meter and nozzle only. Petrol Pump Scams
Exercise the right to ask for a digital receipt
After refueling, be sure to ask for the computerized receipt from the employee. The exact quantity, amount, date and time of fuel are recorded on this receipt. If you are in doubt about the quantity or quality of the fuel, this same receipt serves as proof. In case of any kind of fraud you should contact the concerned company based on this receipt or National Consumer Helpline (NCH) You can file an official complaint with Petrol Pump Scams
Fraud at petrol pumps is not only technical but also exploits the haste and ignorance of consumers. Just a few seconds of vigilance while refueling can save you from huge financial losses. Adhering to the campaign “Jago Consumers Jago”, every citizen must exercise his rights at petrol pumps to get fair value for his money. Petrol Pump Scams
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