The Disappearing Era of Full-Service Gas Stations and Their Benefits
Full-service gas stations, where attendants provide a range of services such as checking oil levels, adding air to tires, cleaning windows, and ensuring a radiator is topped up, have been a nostalgic feature in many areas. However, in recent years, these stations have become increasingly rare, especially in densely populated urban regions like Los Angeles.
State of Full-Service Stations Today
In the greater Los Angeles area, the number of full-service stations is limited. Perhaps one or two can still be found in some affluent neighborhoods such as Beverly Hills, while the rest of the city sees limited options. Even full-service stations, where they still exist, often come with a higher cost. Given the current average price of gas at around $4.45 per gallon at self-serve stations, one can only imagine how much more these attendant services would cost.
Recalling a Former Era
Before my recent move, I had a full-service station in my neighborhood that operated much like a NASCAR pit crew. The Tyrone Brothers, the owners, managed a staff of dedicated employees who could handle a range of services, from a quick fill to a full check-up, all while making sure the car was in tip-top shape before you left. From measuring oil levels to checking tire pressure and ensuring the radiator had enough coolant, it was a fast and efficient process.
Benefits of Full-Service Stations
While full-service stations are rare today, they offer several benefits that self-serve stations cannot replicate:
1. Accurate Oil Check
An accurate oil check requires the engine to be off for a few minutes to allow the oil to settle. Checking the oil when the engine is running can lead to overfilling and potential issues. The attendants at full-service stations have the time to do this correctly, ensuring the engine remains in optimal condition.
2. Correct Tire Pressure Measurement
Tire pressure should be measured on cold tires to ensure accuracy. Adjusting tire pressure after the tires have been heated by driving can result in under-inflation, leading to wear and tear. Full-service stations have the advantage of being able to measure tire pressure when the tires are cold, ensuring safe and efficient driving.
3. Safe Radiator Checks
Radiators should not be checked when the engine is hot. Doing so can give incorrect readings and lead to adding coolant that is not needed. Additionally, different formulations of coolant require proper identification to avoid mixing, which can cause serious problems. Full-service stations have the expertise to perform these checks safely and accurately.
The Decline of Full-Service Gas Stations
Sadly, the era of full-service gas stations has diminished in many areas over the past few years. Personal experience working at an Amoco station in Maryland, USA, provides a poignant reminder. The station had a full-service lane that operated seamlessly, earning many awards for the best full-service station in the region. It was a proud moment when we received these accolades. It remains a mystery why full-service stations are no longer common, especially considering the benefits they provide.
Conclusion
The disappearance of full-service gas stations marks a significant shift in the American automotive landscape. While self-serve stations offer convenience, they cannot replicate the comprehensive services provided by full-service stations. As technology advances and urban areas change, it is important to consider the value and necessity of these traditional services.