Motorists are being urged to stop filling their petrol tanks after the first 'click' - to prevent damage and save cash.
The common practice, known as 'topping off', could not only waste money but could also cause as much as £500 of damage to a vehicle, an expert has said. Graham Conway, managing director of UK leasing firm Select Car Leasing, says drivers should fight the urge to round up to the nearest pound.
He explained: "That’s because it’s likely to still dispense some fuel that won’t end up in your tank. If you ignore the first click you could be filling past the top of the fuel tank port, and that extra fuel will end up running into the small drain under the entry and onto the ground beneath your vehicle.
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"On some pumps the extra fuel may be sucked back into the pipe. This means you are paying the petrol station to give them back their own fuel."
But Graham said a more serious issue lies in the potential damage that can be caused to the vapour recovery system, which stops evaporated petrol or diesel escaping when the petrol cap is released by capturing it in a charcoal canister, reports the Manchester Evening News.
Forcing surplus petrol or diesel into the tank can "propel liquid fuel into the pipes", which damages the vapour recovery system. "That means you will soon see warning lights on your dashboard and run the risk of failing emissions tests," he added.
"You’ll also be looking at an expensive repair bill, possibly up to £500. That’s something definitely worth avoiding during the current cost of living crisis."
The Select Car Leasing chief recommends that people fight the "obsessive-compulsive side to their character" when filling up, and look instead to get the best value for money.
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