How to Fill Up Gas in France (Without Panicking Like I Did)
Introduction: Back in Thailand… It Was So Easy
Back home in Thailand, filling up the gas tank was one of the smoothest, laziest errands ever. You’d just roll into the station, stop next to a pump, and voilà a staff member would rush over, ask what type of fuel you need, fill it up for you, and bring the payment machine to your window. All while you’re still chilling inside the car, probably scrolling on Instagram, LINE or sipping your iced milk tea.
No stress, no mess, and definitely no getting out of the car.
But in France? Let’s just say... my first experience was a mix of confusion, Google Translate, and walking in circles.
If you’re new here, visiting, or just renting a car for the weekend, here’s everything you need to know about filling up gas in France, so you don’t end up looking around for a staff member who doesn’t exist (like I did 😅).
1. Step-by-Step Guide: How to Fill Up Gas in France
Here’s how to do it like a local:
- Drive up to the pump - Make sure your gas cap is on the correct side.
- Check the fuel type - More on this in the next section.
- Insert your card into the machine (or pay inside first) – Most stations require you to pay before you pump.
- Select your pump number on the machine.
- Choose the fuel - Lift the nozzle, press the button or lever, and start fueling.
- Watch the amount and cost as it fills up.
- Once done, return the nozzle - You may need to press “End” or “Finish” depending on the machine.
- Take your receipt - Especially if you’re using a rental car.
🔵Bonus tip: If you’re really new to this, take a quick photo of the pump + card machine and bring it inside to ask for help.
2. Know Your Fuel: What to Put in Your Car
This is super important! putting the wrong fuel type can damage your engine.
Here are the common fuel types in France:
- SP95 / SP98 = Petrol (unleaded)
- E10 (L’ essence E10) = Unleaded with ethanol (compatible with most modern cars)
- Gazole = Diesel
- E85 = Ethanol - only for FlexFuel vehicles!
🔵Check the sticker inside your fuel cap or car manual. Mostly companies usually label the correct fuel on the key fob or dashboard.
3. Payment Tips You’ll Want to Know
- Most stations are self-service, even during the day.
- Many 24/7 stations (especially at supermarkets) are card-only, and some may not accept foreign cards at night.
- Your card may have an amount pre-authorised (like €100) that’s held temporarily.
- Some stations only accept chip-and-PIN cards. Apple Pay or tap-to-pay might not always work.
🔵Tip: Keep your receipt, it's proof of payment and shows what kind of fuel you used.
4. Using Automatic or 24/7 Stations
Many gas stations in France, especially supermarket ones like Carrefour, Leclerc, Super U or Intermarché, are unmanned and open 24/7. Here’s how they work:
- There’s usually a main payment machine, not on every pump.
- You choose your pump number, pay with card, then the machine will unlock that pump.
- After fueling, if you want a receipt, press the ticket (reçu) button.
If the instructions are only in French, don’t worry. Here’s a cheat sheet below. 👇
5. My First Time at a French Gas Station 😂
I remember my first time vividly. I parked, waited in the car… and waited. And waited. No one came. I got out, looked around, even peeked inside the shop. Still no one.
I tried asking in English: “Excuse me, does anyone speak English here?” but after a few awkward tries and polite shrugs, it became clear: no one around spoke English.
So I opened Google Translate, took a deep breath, and asked someone nearby in my best broken French (with a very Thai accent 😅):
“Excusez-moi… où est la personne qui met l’essence ?”
He chuckled and replied, “Il n’y a personne.” (There’s no one.)
Lesson learned: In France, you are the staff.
But luckily, he kindly asked his wife to help me figure it out. 🥹
6. Handy French Phrases at the Gas Station
Whether you're traveling or living here, these can save you:
| French | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Je voudrais faire le plein. | I’d like to fill it up. |
| Quel type d’essence pour cette voiture ? | What fuel for this car? |
| Le paiement ne fonctionne pas. | The payment isn’t working. |
| Je veux un reçu, s’il vous plaît. | I want a receipt, please. |
Bonus: "Sans contact" = contactless (tap to pay)
7. Tips for Travelers or Rental Cars
- Always fill up before returning your rental car and keep the receipt as proof.
- Ask the rental staff what fuel to use (they’re usually happy to help).
- Use Google Maps to find the nearest stations, type “station essence” or “carburant”.
Final Thoughts
Filling up gas in France might take a few tries to get used to, but once you’ve done it once or twice, it becomes second nature. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, even in broken French. People are usually kind and helpful (and maybe even impressed you’re giving it a go!).
And remember: no matter how lost you feel at first, you’re not the only one who’s ever stared at a French gas pump like it was a spaceship.
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