Need to refuel your rental car in Portugal?

❓ Why Refueling Is Confusing for Tourists

If you’re visiting Portugal and driving a rental car, you might be surprised by:

• Different fuel types (diesel vs. gasolina)
• Self-service pumps (with no attendants)
• Fuel names like Gasóleo and Sem Chumbo 95
• Unfamiliar payment terminals
• Extra fees for returning the car without refueling

This guide helps you refuel correctly, avoid fines, and keep your trip smooth.

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🛢️ Fuel Types in Portugal – What to Choose

Fuel Name	English Equivalent	Pump Color	Used For
Gasóleo	Diesel	Black	Diesel cars (very common)
Gasolina 95 / Sem Chumbo 95	Unleaded 95	Green	Most petrol engines
Gasolina 98	Premium unleaded	Green	Sports/luxury vehicles

🧠 Tip: Check your fuel cap or rental key tag — it usually says “DIESEL” or “UNLEADED ONLY”

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🧾 How to Refuel a Rental Car in Portugal (Step-by-Step)

1. Pull up to the correct pump
   • Left-hand fill is standard
   • Make sure you choose the right fuel
2. Insert the nozzle and begin fueling
   • Most pumps are self-service
   • No prepay required — fuel first, then pay
3. Pay inside the store or at the terminal
   • Most modern stations accept cards (Visa, Mastercard, Multibanco)
   • Contactless available at many locations
   • Smaller stations might be cash-only
4. Keep the receipt
   • Especially important for returning your rental car
   • Shows proof of “full-to-full” fuel policy

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🅿️ Best Gas Stations Near Lisbon Airport (LIS)

Station Brand	Distance from LIS	Notes
Galp	1.5 km	Open 24/7, card payments OK
BP	2 km	Also has air/water & mini shop
Repsol	2.3 km	Best for last-minute refuel

🧠 Refuel right before returning your car to avoid fuel surcharges.

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💸 Fuel Prices in Portugal

Type	Price per Liter	Approx. per Full Tank (45L)
Unleaded 95	€1.79	~€80
Diesel (Gasóleo)	€1.64	~€74
Premium 98	€1.95	~€88

💡 Prices vary by location — cheaper in rural areas, more expensive on highways.

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🔧 What If You Refuel Wrong?

• Don’t start the engine!
• Call the rental company immediately
• Using diesel in a petrol car (or vice versa) can cause major engine damage
• Insurance usually does NOT cover misfuelling

🧠 Most rentals are diesel, but never guess — always check.

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🧠 Pro Tips for Tourists Refueling in Portugal

Tip	Why It Helps
✅ Take a photo of your fuel gauge	Show proof of full tank
✅ Fill up 5–10 km before return	Avoid last-minute stress
✅ Use major brands (Galp, BP, Repsol)	Reliable payment systems
✅ Ask if unsure – attendants often speak English	Avoid misfuelling
✅ Use pump # when paying inside	Speeds up the process

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❓ FAQ – Refueling Rental Cars in Portugal

Q: Is full-to-full fuel policy standard?
A: Yes, most rentals expect the tank to be full on return.

Q: Can I use a prepaid or debit card at the pump?
A: Sometimes. Safer to pay inside if you’re using debit.

Q: What happens if I return the car half full?
A: You’ll be charged for fuel plus a service fee (usually €20–50)

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✅ Summary – How to Refuel a Rental Car in Portugal

Step	Action
Identify fuel type	✅ Check rental agreement or fuel cap
Choose the right station	✅ Use Galp/BP/Repsol near drop-off
Pay and save the receipt	✅ Needed for rental proof
Return the car full	✅ Avoid fines or fuel surcharges
Misfuelling?	❌ Don’t drive – call the rental company

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🚘 Ready to Rent a Car in Portugal?

Book a car with:

• ✅ Clear fuel policy (full-to-full)
• ✅ Debit card support
• ✅ Toll device included
• ✅ Airport pickup/drop-off