Let’s face it — we’ve all had a moment (or ten) at the servo that we’d rather forget. Whether it’s pulling up on the wrong side, trying to fill up a diesel car with unleaded, or locking your keys inside while your pie is still heating — don’t feel too bad as it happens to the best of us Belmore drivers.

If you’re new to this area or you’ve just passed your driving test, the following is a friendly guide to navigating the servo like a pro and leaving with both your dignity and your car intact.

1. Know Your Fuel Type (Before You Pop the Cap)

It sounds obvious until it isn’t. You’d be surprised how many people blank out at the bowser. Is it 91, 95, 98, E10, or diesel? One wrong move and you're calling a tow truck instead of heading home with a full tank. If in doubt, our advice is to always check the sticker inside your fuel flap — it’s there for a reason.

2. Pick the Right Side (or Master the Pump Stretch)

There’s no shame in pulling up on the wrong side… unless you do it every time. Remember: most fuel gauges have a little arrow showing which side the tank is on. Can’t see it? Take a look at your dash and look to see if the arrow is pointing left or right. Seal that vision into your memory and you’ll never pull up on the wrong side again.

3. Don’t Leave the Nozzle Behind

Yes, it is possible to drive off with the pump still in the tank so always double check that you’ve put the nozzle back. If you make this mistake, you might have to pay an unplanned visit to your Belmore mechanic instead of heading on your merry way.

4. Mind the Queue Etiquette

Nothing gets Aussie tempers flaring like servo line-cutting so don’t do it. If someone’s waiting, don’t swoop into their spot from the other side like it’s a Formula 1 pit stop. A friendly nod or wave goes a long way and we’d all like to think that the queue system still works so be respectful.

5. Respect the Pie Warmer

Yes, it’s tempting. Yes, you’re hungry. But no, you don’t need to open the pie warmer 47 times. Know what you want before you dive in, and leave the poor servo worker in peace. (Also — pro tip: the chicken & gravy roll is so underrated.)

6. Don’t Treat It Like a Rubbish Tip

It should go without saying but chuck your wrappers in the bin, not on the forecourt. A clean servo is a happy servo and a happy servo is where we all want to be. Bonus points if you give your windscreen a quick wipe while you’re there.

So there you have it — your crash course (hopefully not literally) on being a top-tier Belmore servo customer. Got a classic servo fail you’re willing to admit to? As a local Belmore mechanic, there’s not much we haven’t heard of so nothing will surprise us!