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Frequent Offers at Gas Stations May Hide Risks for Your Engine and Your Wallet. Learn How to Identify Unnecessary Services That May Cause Losses and Learn to Protect Your Vehicle from Common Traps During Refueling.
Many drivers believe they are taking care of their car when they accept services offered during refueling. But this trust can end up being costly.
Throughout Brazil, attendants approach with promises of “quick help” when the driver parks at the station. Checking the oil, topping up the radiator, replacing wiper blades, or adding additives are some of the most common approaches.
These practices, when done without technical criteria, can impair the vehicle’s functioning or generate unnecessary expenses.
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According to the National Agency of Oil, Natural Gas and Biofuels (ANP), enforcement actions have identified irregularities related to these extra offers, revealing a reality that many are unaware of.
Below, see the main services that deserve attention and the necessary precautions to avoid traps disguised as kindness.
Additive Fuel? You May Be Paying for It Unnecessarily
The offer to add additives to fuel at the time of refueling is common and, in many cases, unnecessary.
Experts explain that fuels legally sold in Brazil already undergo certification and have a formulation suitable for modern engine operation.
If the driver wants a cleaner option, the recommendation is to choose directly at the pump the additive fuels offered by distributors.
Adding external substances may be ineffective and even interfere with the performance expected by the manufacturer.
Attendant Suggested Topping Up the Oil? Be Careful with the Hot Engine
Checking and topping up the oil level are services frequently offered at gas stations but require attention.
When the engine is hot, part of the lubricant is still circulating and hasn’t returned to the oil pan. This causes the apparent level to be low, which leads the attendant to suggest adding oil.
Excess lubricant can cause foam formation and compromise lubrication, in addition to straining internal components.
The correct procedure is to check the oil level only with the engine cold and the car level on flat ground.
Radiator Additive: Not Always Necessary
Another warning involves the cooling system. Attendants often suggest adding additives to the radiator when checking the expansion tank.
Although topping up the level may be necessary, experts warn that replenishment should be done with demineralized water to avoid internal corrosion.
If the vehicle truly needs an additive, the product must exactly follow the specifications recommended in the manufacturer’s manual. Any inappropriate composition can harm the system and compromise engine cooling.
Wiper Blades: Cleaning May Solve It
Replacing the windshield wiper blades is another “kindness” that can generate unnecessary expenses.
Over time, it is natural for wear to occur due to the action of sun, rain, and dirt. However, this does not mean that replacement is always mandatory.
In many cases, simply cleaning the rubber with water is enough to restore its effectiveness.
Additionally, using aftermarket blades or low-quality options can cause cleaning failures and even scratch the glass.
The ideal is to keep the original parts and only replace them when they show actual wear.
Brake Fluid Change: Only with a Specialist
One of the most dangerous offers made at gas stations is the check or change of brake fluid.
This type of intervention requires technical knowledge and should not be performed by just anyone.
The fluid has hygroscopic properties, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air. Any contamination can lower its boiling point, affecting braking.
Moreover, the entry of air can create bubbles in the tubing, further impairing the system’s efficiency.
If replacement is necessary, it is recommended to seek a trusted mechanic, perform a complete bleed, and use appropriate products.
Even gestures that seem helpful can hide risks. Are you sure you know all the dangers behind the ‘good intentions’ at gas stations?
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