Filling up the tank

I am sure you have realized that the items that we blog range from everyday items to brand new items. You would think that filling your car with gas would not be a blog post, but here we are!

Prices

 Gas is running around R$3.30 - 3.50 per liter. This would be about $4.28 U.S. dollars per gallon.

Types
Regular, With Additives, and Ethanol
The regular actually includes Ethanol, but is as close to normal gas that we know. The one with additives is just the stations version with extra cleaners, etc. Ethanol is similar to the US version but with a bit more.

Workers
When you pull up to the pump, the first major difference is you do NOT get out of your car. There are 'trained' workers that come to you. You inform them what type of gas you want, any other services you need, and off they go. If you pull up to the station and there is a line, they will direct you to an empty spot. This doesn't have to be the side that your tank is on, in fact, most people tend to pull in on the opposite side. The hose/line is incredibly long to reach around the car. Very different!

How many people need to work here!? Always an abundance of workers everywhere we go!

Gasolina Completa

When you ask for them to "fill it up" they are going to ask you what type. We just get normal. After filling up, they will ask you how you are going to pay. Using a credit or debit card is easy, but they do not have the swipe at the pumps like in the U.S. They bring the machine to you. This is a small, handheld, wireless device and you will find them at most restaurants as well. Sometimes, they will have you get out of the car and go to a central stand where one worker is running the credit card transactions. This tends to happen when the station is very busy. Once there, if using a Gas Card, you have to provide the mileage of your car and your pin number as well. (We are good with numbers up to 100, but the larger numbers are a little tricky for us!).

Luckily, the workers are always so helpful, kinds and patient with us!

In addition to filling up your tank, the workers will ask if you need any other services. When it is raining, they will ask if you need your 'aguas' checked. If you say yes, they will check your windshield wiper fluid and maybe some other things. If you need anything, they will fill it up for you for a very minimal cost! Most gas stations include a service center as well, and they are always busy!