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Running out of gas and waiting forever for help

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Posts: 15
(@diver49)
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Still, I’d rather deal with that than be stranded on the side of the highway.

I get that, but isn’t it a bit risky keeping a full gas can in the trunk long-term? I’ve always worried about fumes or even a potential fire hazard, especially with how hot the interiors can get in summer. Maybe newer cars are better sealed? I just can’t shake the idea that one bad bump could cause a leak... Am I overthinking it?


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joshuaw48
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(@joshuaw48)
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I’ve always worried about fumes or even a potential fire hazard, especially with how hot the interiors can get in summer.

- I hear you. I drive an S-Class and thought about keeping a gas can in the trunk, but honestly, the idea freaks me out.
- Once had a small spill from a sealed can after a bumpy road trip—my whole car reeked for days. Not worth it.
- Even with newer cars, heat’s still heat. Luxury or not, I’d rather just keep an eye on my fuel gauge and avoid the hassle.
- Roadside assistance is slow, but I'd rather wait than risk smelling gas every time I get in.


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karenr20
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(@karenr20)
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I get the worry about fumes, especially in summer.

Even with newer cars, heat’s still heat. Luxury or not, I’d rather just keep an eye on my fuel gauge and avoid the hassle.
Thing is, accidents happen—sometimes you just misjudge the range or get stuck in traffic. I’ve seen claims where a tiny gas spill led to interior repairs that insurance didn’t even cover. Is it really safer to rely on roadside, though? Some of those wait times are brutal... Curious if anyone’s actually had a fire risk from a gas can or if it’s more of a theoretical fear.


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paul_miller2864
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(@paul_miller2864)
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Never actually had a fire risk from carrying a gas can, but I get why people worry—especially when it’s 95 degrees and your car basically turns into an oven. I’ve definitely spilled a bit of gas in the trunk before, and yeah, the smell sticks around way longer than you’d think. Roadside is hit or miss… once waited over two hours for a rescue that took five minutes. Honestly, I just try to avoid pushing it with the fuel light, but hey, nobody’s perfect.


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podcaster599665
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(@podcaster599665)
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Roadside is hit or miss… once waited over two hours for a rescue that took five minutes.

That’s been my experience too. Even with the “priority” roadside plans, you’re still at the mercy of whoever’s available nearby. I’ve started carrying one of those small, sealed gas cans just in case, but I’m always careful to keep it upright and out of direct sun—especially on longer trips. The fumes are no joke, and like you said, the smell lingers forever. Honestly, I’d rather spend a few extra bucks topping off than risk getting stranded miles from anywhere.


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