Fueling Up in Iceland: Petrol (Gas) or Diesel?

Filling up in Iceland is easy once you know how it works. Most fuel stations are self-service and open around the clock, but there are a few things to know before your first stop.

Petrol or diesel?

Always check which fuel your car uses before you fill up – even similar-looking cars and 4x4s can take different fuel. There are three easy ways to tell:

The sticker on the fuel flap: green = petrol, black = diesel.
Your key ring also shows whether the car takes petrol or diesel.
Your rental agreement.

At the pump: green is petrol, black is diesel

Icelandic fuel pumps use the same colors as our stickers:

Green handle – Bensín (95) = petrol / gas / gasoline
Black handle – Dísel = diesel

Visiting from the US? This may be the opposite of what you are used to – in the US, a green pump handle often means diesel. In Iceland, green is petrol. Always read the label on the pump before you start.

Can't open the fuel door?

Unlock the car first. On many cars the fuel door only opens when the doors are unlocked.
Press the edge of the fuel door – on many models it pops open when you push it.
Look for a release button or lever near the driver's seat, usually on the floor or low on the dashboard, often marked with a fuel pump symbol.
Still stuck? Call 24 Road Assistance at +354 419 2400.

Filled up with the wrong fuel?

Filling the car with the wrong fuel can cause serious engine damage. If it happens, do not start the engine – call 24 Road Assistance at +354 419 2400.

How to pay

Most pumps are pay-at-pump. Insert or tap your card at the pump and follow the instructions on the screen.
You will usually need a card with a PIN code. Some foreign cards without a PIN may not work at the pump.
The pump places a temporary hold on your card before you fill up. The hold is released later, and you're only charged for the fuel you actually took.
If your card doesn't work, you can buy a prepaid fuel card in the station shop during opening hours.

Fuel discount

Your SIXT key ring comes with a discount chip for Orkan or Olís – see Fuel discount with your SIXT key ring.

Plan your stops

There are plenty of stations around Reykjavík and along the Ring Road, but in the East, the Westfjords and the highlands there can be long distances between them.
A good rule: fill up when the tank is half empty, especially before driving into remote areas or in winter.
There are almost no fuel stations in the highlands, so fill up before you go.

Electric cars

Driving an electric car? See Charging an electric car in Iceland.