Should the first refueling of a new car be filled to the maximum?
2 Answers
When refueling a new car for the first time, it is not advisable to fill the tank to the maximum. Here are the specific details: Reason: For the first refueling after purchasing a new car, it is best to stop when the fuel nozzle automatically stops (first click), as the tank is not actually full at this point. This is to leave some air space in the tank, preventing excessive internal pressure. Additionally, this method helps in verifying the accuracy of the new car's fuel gauge. However, if you continue to add fuel after the first automatic stop, the fuel level float will rise with the fuel surface, stretching the fuel level sensor's contacts and slider close to the edge or even causing them to disconnect, which may trigger a fault alarm in the fuel indicator. Maintenance: Refueling in the early morning or late evening is more economical than refueling at noon. This is especially true during autumn when the temperature difference between day and night is significant, due to the simple principle of thermal expansion and contraction. Since fuel is measured by volume, the lower temperatures in the early morning and late evening result in a relatively smaller volume, whereas the higher temperature at noon causes the volume to expand.
I've driven quite a few new cars. From a mechanical perspective, filling up the tank for the first time is generally fine—fuel tanks are designed with capacity limits to prevent overflow. Just don't overfill to the point of leakage, as that could damage the sealing ring or sensors. New car fuel tanks are free of impurities, and filling up helps stabilize the fuel system's operation, especially during startup to avoid the fuel pump drawing in air. However, if the car is parked for long periods overnight, some fuel may evaporate, which can impact the environment. Overall, filling up is convenient and hassle-free. I’ve tried it several times—with a new car, it’s better to fill up right away to avoid frequent trips to the gas station. Beginners may want to consult a 4S店 technician, as they have experience handling first-service details. Remember not to rush when refueling—take it slow to protect your new car’s components. Sharing this experience for those who need it.
