Which side is the fuel cap on? Check the arrow

Find the fuel flap from the cabin

Driving an unfamiliar car? You may not need to get out and walk around before choosing a pump. Look at the fuel gauge on the dashboard: many vehicles place a small, separate arrow beside the pump symbol. That arrow indicates the side of the car where the fuel flap is located.

1. Park safely and glance at the fuel gauge.
2. Look for a distinct arrow next to the pump icon.
3. Use its direction as a clue when choosing which side to pull up to the pump.

Why this little marker helps

You can check it before leaving the cabin, which can save an awkward stop or repositioning at a busy station. The arrow is the useful part; do not infer the flap's position from which way the pump nozzle in the icon happens to face. For example, a Ford owner's manual documents this indicator for a particular model.

If there is no arrow

Not every vehicle has the marker, and dashboard designs vary by model. If you cannot see a clear, separate arrow, do not guess from the illustration. Check the owner's manual or take a quick look at the outside of the car before pulling in. Treat the marker as a handy clue, not a universal feature—especially in older or less common vehicles. This small check is most useful when you have borrowed or rented a car and do not yet know its layout.