Does Zipcar’s Fuel Card Work at Gas Stations?

Yes, fueling a Zipcar at gas stations is an integral part of the service, and the company provides a system to handle fuel costs directly.

Zipcar’s Fueling Policy

Zipcar’s policy is designed to make car sharing convenient by including fuel costs in the rental rate. This means members generally do not pay out-of-pocket for gasoline during their reservation. The company covers the expense of standard unleaded gasoline for most vehicles, ensuring a seamless experience for users. Members are expected to refuel the vehicle if the tank level falls below a certain threshold, typically a quarter tank. Failure to return the vehicle with at least a quarter tank of fuel may result in a low fuel fee, which can be around $35.

Steps for Fueling a Zipcar

First, locate the fuel card, which is usually found behind the driver’s side sun visor, in the glove compartment, or an armrest compartment. Once at the pump, swipe the fuel card just as you would a personal credit or debit card.

When prompted for a driver’s ID or PIN, enter the first six digits of your Zipcard identification. The system may also request the car’s mileage from the odometer, which should be entered accurately to process the payment. It is important to pay directly at the pump, as the fuel card may not work inside the gas station’s convenience store. If a pre-authorization amount is requested, input $50 or less before filling up, and if a zip code is needed, use your billing zip code.

Should the fuel card not function at the pump, members are advised to pay for the fuel using their own funds. In such instances, it is important to keep the receipt to request reimbursement from Zipcar. Report any fuel card issues immediately through the Zipcar mobile application.

Additional Fueling Guidelines

Maintaining proper fuel levels and using the correct fuel type are important responsibilities for Zipcar members. Most Zipcar vehicles require regular unleaded gasoline, specifically 87 Octane, while luxury vehicles might require premium unleaded, typically 91-94 Octane. Never use diesel fuel in a gasoline vehicle, as this can cause significant damage and lead to substantial repair costs not covered by standard fees.

If a fuel card fails and a member pays for gas out of pocket, retaining the receipt is essential for reimbursement. Reimbursement requests typically need to be submitted within 30 days of purchase, with receipts clearly showing the date, time, and purchase amount. If the original receipt is lost, a bank statement clearly showing the transaction can serve as proof of payment. Returning a vehicle with less than a quarter tank of fuel can incur a low fuel fee, usually around $35.