Dashboard Fuel Arrow: Know Where Your Gas Cap Is

The Hidden Triangle on Your Dashboard: A Simple Fueling Hack

Almost every driver has faced an awkward moment at a gas station: you pull up to the pump, only to realize the fuel cap is on the opposite side. You either have to stretch the hose across the car or reposition the vehicle altogether. But there’s an easy way to avoid this mistake — the answer is right on your dashboard.

 

Where to Look

Next to the fuel gauge, there’s a small fuel pump icon. Beside it, you might notice a tiny triangle or arrow. That arrow indicates which side of the car the fuel cap is located.

If there’s no arrow, check the pump illustration itself — in many cases, the hose is drawn on the same side as the fuel filler cap.

 

Why It Matters

In the past, there was a pattern: European cars often had the fuel cap on the right, while Japanese cars placed it on the left. But with today’s globalized car production, these rules no longer apply. Automakers now choose placement based on body design, safety, and even regional requirements. The only reliable method is to check the dashboard.

 

The Benefit

Modern fuel pumps may have long hoses, but dragging them across your car is inconvenient and risky. It can scratch the paint, dirty your hands, or simply not reach. One quick glance at your dashboard before refueling saves you from all this trouble.