Can You Use Gas from Private Gas Stations?
3 Answers
You can use gas from private gas stations. Fuel Quality: Regarding fuel quality, private gas stations have multiple supply channels. In addition to sourcing from refineries like Sinopec and PetroChina, they may also purchase from other sources, including numerous small refineries in Shandong and even unknown channels. Essentially, they buy from wherever the price is cheapest, without fixed supply channels. This, to some extent, leads to inconsistent fuel quality at private gas stations. Market Competition: Private gas stations cannot compete with state-owned ones in terms of scale or brand recognition. Facing significant market competition pressure—like trying to snatch meat from a wolf's mouth—they can only attract more customers by slightly lowering prices while ensuring fuel quality.
Having driven for over a decade, I've always preferred refueling at reputable private gas stations as they usually offer more affordable prices and flexible service. I remember during last year's peak oil prices, I frequently visited Old Liu's Gas Station, saving over two yuan per liter, which added up to two or three hundred yuan a month. However, I always do some homework beforehand, checking which stations are recommended by local drivers or looking up online reviews. In terms of fuel quality, legitimate private stations source directly from Sinopec and PetroChina refineries, so there's no issue there. The key is to pay attention to whether the quality inspection label on the dispenser is within its validity period and if the fuel tank cap seal is intact. By the way, I've noticed that chain-branded private stations tend to have more consistent quality, like 'Delikuai' which has opened seven or eight branches in our area.
Last week, I just filled up at a private gas station in the suburbs and paid special attention to the engine sound and fuel consumption while driving on the highway. To be honest, the fuel quality at major private stations has caught up now, but the key is learning how to identify good ones. I usually check two things: first, the overall environment of the station—if there are severe oil stains on the ground or rusty equipment, I avoid it; second, whether the pump number is registered on the quality inspection notice board. The attendant even proactively showed me the purchase receipt last time, which confirmed the fuel came from a legitimate refinery. The price advantage is indeed significant, with 92-octane fuel about 1 yuan cheaper per liter, but I wouldn’t recommend going to extremely remote stations just to save money. I usually stick to two reputable stations and alternate between them, and I always fill up at Sinopec or PetroChina before long trips.
