Fueling up your vehicle is a regular part of life, but it can feel a little intimidating if you're new to it, or if you're at a new station like a Kroger Fuel Center. Don't worry, we've all been there! This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of using a Kroger gas pump, from pulling up to driving away, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience. Plus, we'll dive into how to maximize your savings with those valuable Kroger Fuel Points!
Your Ultimate Guide to Using Kroger Gas Pumps
Step 1: Getting Ready at the Pump – A Quick Pre-Check
Before you even pull into the Kroger Fuel Center, take a moment to orient yourself. This initial step can save you a lot of time and awkward maneuvering.
Sub-heading: Know Your Car (and the Pump!)
Which side is your gas tank on? This might seem obvious, but in a rush, it's easy to forget! Look at your fuel gauge on your dashboard; there's usually a small arrow pointing to the side where your gas tank is located. This will help you position your car correctly at the pump.
What kind of fuel does your car need? Most passenger vehicles use regular unleaded (87 octane). However, if you drive a performance car or a diesel vehicle, you'll need a specific fuel type. Check your owner's manual or the inside of your gas cap for the recommended fuel grade. Using the wrong fuel can cause serious damage to your engine.
Turn off your engine! This is a crucial safety step. Never pump gas with your engine running.
Sub-heading: Approaching the Pump
Locate an available pump: Look for a pump that's empty and on the correct side for your gas tank.
Pull up slowly and carefully: Position your vehicle so your gas tank opening is easily accessible to the pump nozzle. You don't want to stretch the hose too far.
Observe your surroundings: Take note of where the convenience store is, in case you need to pay inside or ask for assistance.
Step 2: Initiating the Transaction – Payment and Loyalty
This is where you tell the pump how you're going to pay and, importantly, how you're going to save money with your Kroger Fuel Points!
Sub-heading: Payment Methods at the Pump
Kroger Fuel Centers offer several convenient ways to pay:
Credit/Debit Card at the Pump: This is often the quickest and most common method.
Insert your card: Follow the prompts on the screen.
Select "Credit" or "Debit": If paying with debit, you'll likely need to enter your PIN.
Enter your ZIP code: This is a common fraud prevention measure.
Choose your amount (or "Fill Up"): Some pumps will ask if you want to select a specific dollar amount. If you want to fill your tank completely, simply press "Enter" or select the "Fill Up" option to bypass this. Be aware that the pump may place a temporary hold on your card for a larger amount (e.g., $75 or $100) before the actual transaction clears. This is normal and the difference will be refunded.
Kroger Pay (via the Kroger App): This is a fantastic, contact-free option that integrates your payment and loyalty information.
Open the Kroger App on your smartphone.
Tap "Kroger Pay" (usually found in the top left corner of the homescreen).
Select "Use at the Pump" and enter your pump number.
Make your selections in the app: This is where you'll choose your fuel discount (e.g., how many Fuel Points to redeem) and your payment type.
Once confirmed in the app, the pump will be activated for you.
Paying Inside with Cash or Card:
Note your pump number.
Go inside the convenience store.
Tell the attendant your pump number and how much gas you want. If paying with cash, you'll need to estimate the amount. If you overpay, you'll return to the counter for change after fueling. If paying with a card, they will process the payment.
Return to your pump once the attendant has activated it.
Sub-heading: Redeeming Your Kroger Fuel Points
This is where your loyalty truly pays off! Kroger Fuel Points can provide significant savings per gallon.
Before or during payment: The pump will typically prompt you to enter your Kroger Shopper's Card or your Alt-ID (usually your phone number) associated with your Kroger account.
Follow the on-screen prompts: Once your loyalty ID is recognized, the pump will display your available Fuel Points balance and offer options for redemption.
You might be able to choose to redeem the full available amount for the current month.
You can often enter a specific amount you want to use, typically in 10¢ per gallon increments.
Even if you don't have enough points for a larger discount, simply scanning your Shopper's Card or entering your Alt-ID often grants you a baseline discount (e.g., 3¢ off per gallon).
Confirm your selection: The discount will then be applied to your fuel purchase. The pump will show the discounted price per gallon.
Step 3: Fueling Your Vehicle – The Pumping Process
Now that payment and loyalty are sorted, it's time to get the gas flowing!
Sub-heading: Opening Your Fuel Tank
Locate your fuel door: This is usually on the side of your car.
Open the fuel door: Depending on your car, you might need to press a button inside your vehicle (often near the driver's seat or on the dashboard), or simply open it with your hand.
Unscrew the gas cap: Turn it counter-clockwise. Some caps are tethered to the car, others you can place on a hook near the fuel door or on the pump itself. Ensure it's in a safe place where it won't get lost or damaged.
Sub-heading: Selecting Fuel Grade and Pumping
Remove the nozzle: Lift the desired fuel nozzle from its holder on the pump.
Select your fuel grade: On the pump, press the button corresponding to the octane level you need (e.g., Regular 87, Mid-Grade 89, Premium 91/93, Diesel). Double-check that you're selecting the correct one!
Insert the nozzle into your fuel tank opening: Push it in firmly until it feels secure.
Start pumping: Squeeze the handle on the nozzle. Most pumps have a small latch or clip you can engage to hold the handle open, allowing you to let go and let the gas flow automatically. This is a convenient feature, so you don't have to stand there holding it the entire time.
Monitor the display: The pump's screen will show the gallons dispensed and the running total.
Automatic Shut-Off: The pump is designed to automatically shut off once your tank is full or when it reaches the pre-selected dollar amount you paid for. You'll hear a distinct click.
Do not "top off": Once the pump clicks off, resist the urge to add more gas. This can damage your vehicle's evaporative emissions system.
Step 4: Finishing Up – Receipt and Departure
You're almost done! A few final steps before you drive away.
Sub-heading: Replacing the Nozzle and Cap
Remove the nozzle: Once the pump clicks off, gently pull the nozzle out of your fuel tank.
Return the nozzle to the pump holder: Ensure it's securely in place.
Replace your gas cap: Screw it back on tightly, turning clockwise until you hear a click or feel it tighten.
Close your fuel door.
Sub-heading: Getting Your Receipt
Print receipt: The pump will usually ask if you want a receipt. Select "Yes" if you do.
Collect your receipt: It will print from a slot on the pump. This receipt is important for tracking your fuel purchase and often shows your Fuel Points earned and redeemed.
If the receipt printer is out of paper or not working, you can usually go inside the store and ask the attendant for a receipt. They'll need your pump number.
Sub-heading: Driving Away
Double-check your surroundings: Make sure nothing is left behind (like your gas cap if you forgot to put it back on!).
Slowly and carefully drive away from the pump.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to check my Kroger Fuel Points balance?
You can easily check your Kroger Fuel Points balance on your last Kroger grocery receipt, by logging into your Kroger account on their website, or through the Kroger mobile app.
How to redeem Kroger Fuel Points at the pump?
At the pump, you'll be prompted to swipe your Kroger Shopper's Card or enter your Alt-ID (usually your phone number). Follow the on-screen instructions to select the amount of Fuel Points you wish to redeem for a discount per gallon.
How to use Kroger Pay at the gas pump?
Open the Kroger app, tap "Kroger Pay," select "Use at the Pump," enter your pump number, and then choose your fuel discount and payment method directly in the app. The pump will then activate.
How to get a receipt if the pump's printer is out of paper?
If the pump's receipt printer isn't working, simply go inside the Kroger Fuel Center convenience store, tell the attendant your pump number, and they can print a receipt for you.
How to fix a gas pump that keeps clicking off?
Sometimes, a pump might repeatedly click off. This can be due to an issue with your car's fuel filler neck or the pump's vapor recovery system. Try pulling the nozzle out slightly, or reducing the flow rate by not squeezing the handle fully. If it persists, try another pump.
How to know which side my gas tank is on?
Look at your fuel gauge on your car's dashboard. There's often a small arrow next to the gas pump icon that points to the side of your vehicle where the fuel filler door is located.
How to use a debit card at the Kroger gas pump?
Insert your debit card, select "Debit" when prompted, and then enter your PIN when requested. You may also need to enter your ZIP code for verification.
How to get the maximum discount with Kroger Fuel Points?
To get the maximum discount, aim to accumulate 1000 Fuel Points, which typically translates to $1.00 off per gallon (up to 35 gallons). Look for bonus point promotions on gift cards or specific products in Kroger stores to earn points faster.
How to contact Kroger customer service for fuel pump issues?
If you encounter a persistent issue or need assistance at a Kroger Fuel Center, you can call Kroger customer service at 1-800-KRO-GERS (1-800-576-4377).
How to prevent gas from spilling or overflowing?
Always stop pumping when the nozzle automatically clicks off. Avoid trying to "top off" your tank, as this can lead to spills and can damage your vehicle's emissions system.
