Every vehicle needs a specific type of fuel to function. Using the wrong fuel can cause severe damage to the fuel pump and parts of the fuel system. Sometimes, the damage may be severe, and you may have to replace the fuel pump, injectors, and fuel tank. For first-time vehicle owners, knowing about fuel and gas types and the different services can make a big difference in vehicle maintenance and cost savings.

Fuel and gas types
While gasoline is the most commonly used fuel for transportation, with new commitments to reduce carbon emissions, countries are requesting automakers to work with safer fuel and gas alternatives. The fuel and gas types that are currently in use for transportation include-

Gasoline
Gasoline is refined from crude oil and is blended with other additives like ethanol to improve efficiency and prevent any harm to engines. Its high energy density makes it a widely preferred fuel option.

Diesel
Diesel is another form of refined crude oil and is more efficient than gasoline and emits much lower greenhouse gases.

Natural gas
Natural gas is obtained along with crude oil. It is a simple oil and burns cleanly. The compressed form of this gas, known as CNG, is a popular choice for delivery trucks and smaller cars.

Ethanol
Ethanol is a colorless, flammable fuel made by fermenting sugar in plants like sugarcane, corn, cactus, and switchgrass. Ethanol can also be processed from natural gas. Ethanol is less expensive than gasoline but also has less energy content than gasoline.

Methanol
The process of extracting methanol from natural raw materials is similar to that of ethanol, with the former being the affordable option. Methanol can be extracted from natural gas, coal, and farm waste. It is a colorless, flammable, but safe transportation fuel.

Hydrogen
Hydrogen is an excellent fuel choice when it’s contained in electrochemical cells. Because it is one of the most abundant elements, hydrogen is a widely preferred fuel choice among automakers.

Biodiesel
Biodiesel is vegetable oil mixed with methanol and lye. This mixture offers more energy and is less dense, making it suitable for all seasons and weather conditions.

Fuel and gas companies
Knowing the best quality fuel providers can help you choose the right fuel and gas for your vehicle, saving you long-term maintenance and repair expenses. Using a specific brand can help you accumulate points and make you eligible for rewards and discounts. Here are the top fuel and gas companies in the country.

• 76
• Arco
• BP
• Chevron
• Conoco Philips
• ExxonMobil
• Marathon
• Shell
• Sinclair

Top apps to know fuel and gas stations nearby
Most auto owners choose a particular fuel or gas company and stay loyal to the brand except when they travel, have an almost empty tank, or cannot find their preferred company’s gas station nearby. One should not use any fuel other than the one suggested by the automobile company. One can opt for a different company’s fuel, but one should not change the fuel type if one cannot find the right choice for one’s car.

For new vehicle owners, knowing the fuel and gas stations nearby can save you valuable time during rush hour or if you are suddenly low on gas. Many apps help you find the cheapest and nearest fuel and gas station based on your fuel type and brand preference. The apps track your gas consumption history and can even track your mileage to inform and alert you when you are low on fuel. Most apps also offer cashback, discounts, points, and gas coupons. Some of the leading platforms besides the apps of the fuel and gas companies are-

• GasBuddy
• Checkout 51
• Drivvo
• Waze
• Marathon
• WEX Connect
• Circle K

How to make use of fuel and gas coupons
Gas coupons are a mode of cashless payment mode that comes with unique barcodes and spam protection. A coupon lists the type of fuel, the quantity of fuel you can buy, the benefits, and the validity period. Savings per gallon of fuel, cash backs, discounts, fuel point programs, and loyalty rewards are some benefits that help you save on fuel costs. Coupons are best suited for those with multiple personal and business vehicles, fleet owners, and fleet operators. You can save at least $100 annually using fuel and gas coupons. Some companies tie up with other retailers and offer discounts while using their services. Some popular fuel and gas coupons are-

• $10 off from Shell
• Buy from the shell and get a 70% discount from discovercars.com
• Get 6 cents off on every gallon on Exxon Mobil Rewards
• Save 25 cents per Gallon at Shell from Advance Auto Parts
• $20 Cashback on new memberships from Costco
• $10 off the first gas bill from Upside Business Travel
• 10% off Gas logs from Northline Express
• 20% sitewide off at Fuel-usa.com