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How to check if a petrol station is short-changing you on fuel
Filling stations in Spain have to carry out a measurement test if requested by customers
With the way fuel prices are going in Spain, it really is a case of every cent counts, so the last thing drivers need is to feel ripped off at the petrol pumps. It’s certainly not a regular occurrence, but most motorists will have experienced the feeling at one time or other that a full tank just didn’t get them as far as they would have imagined. Still more drivers swear by one service station over another, convinced they get more bang for their buck.
But what about the unlikely event where you feel the petrol station is actually trying to catch you out and not fill up the amount of litres you’ve paid for? Is there any comeback? Actually, there is, and companies are required by law to take your complaint seriously if you suspect any dodgy dealings.
All filling stations are obliged to carry out a probe test if a customer asks. This simple procedure involves filling a regulated test tube with fuel from the pump and checking that the numbers match. If the pump shows a higher number than the test tube, you have a legitimate complaint. Charging for more fuel than is being pumped into the tank is considered a serious crime of fraud and carries very steep fines.
On the other hand, if an establishment refuses to carry out the probe test, drivers should also file a formal complaint.
If a filling station is willing to lie about the amount of fuel being delivered to customers, then surely it’s going to be smart enough to also doctor the probe test, right? Not so, at least according to the Easy Gas chain, which explains that the test tubes are regulated and sealed before use, and completely tamper proof.
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Image: Pixabay
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