Beware of the gas station across from Hertz at MCO

[LisaS]

When we were returning our rental car to MCO last week we remembered there is a gas station right across from the Hertz location just off airport property. We figured a station so close to the airport would have slightly higher prices but we were anxious to return the car and get to the terminal and didn't want to go too far out of our way.

We pulled in and were about to fill up when another customer walked over and warned us that the price of gas at this station was double the normal rate. I looked at the pump and saw they were charging nearly $5 a gallon! She hadn't noticed until she had filled up her car and needless to say she was very upset. There is no sign out front advertising the prices so if you are in a hurry and not paying attention you could easily get taken.

We got back in the car and continued down the road for less than a mile to another gas station (I think it was called Racetrak) where gas was selling for a more reasonable price.

 

[Swimmergirl]

Yep, we fell for that a few years back! Denfinately won't be heading there again!

 

[AlexDurrani]

I'm surprised no one has reported them because there must be laws against the missing signs and there are laws on how much you can upcharge over your cost. Racetrac is one of the cheapest stations historically.

 

[KINGBOBOFTHENORTH]

There is no law in Florida requiring the posting of gas prices, except on the pump itself. These two stations have made local headlines for some time now. Their argument is that they provide a service to those returning rental cars in the area in that the prices they charge are less than what the rental companies themselves charge if you return cars less than full. And that is a valid point.

However, both stations are located within the city limits of Orlando and the city recently passed a law requiring the prominent posting of gas prices. One or both of these stations have challenged the law. So for now, their method of operation continues until the courts rule.

BobK/Orlando

 

[agnes!]

We like to fill up at the Hess gas station that's the last one before getting on the toll-road that goes to MCO.

agnes!

 

[OhMari]

We fill up at a BP at the Sea World exit.
I always buy a gift card from BP before we leave and tuck it away for the last expense.

 

[DebbieB]

We like to fill up at the Hess gas station that's the last one before getting on the toll-road that goes to MCO.

agnes!

We filled up on World Drive yesterday but noticed that the station you mentioned was a few cents cheaper. I think I paid $2.73, that one was $2.67.

 

[francie57]

Agree with pp, we use the Hess just before the toll road or the Hess station next to the Boardwalk since their prices are usually really reasonable.

 

[safetymom]

They were working on a law, ordinance that those gas stations would have to post signs showing the price of their gas. It has been turned down twice because something wasn't written right in the bill. Orlando is very aware of the gas stations near the airport that do this.

 

[Dan Murphy]

I always fill up at Hess by the Boardwalk before leaving Disney property and heading to MCO.

 

[seashoreCM]

(copied from another forum)
Can't see the price? Drive in and look. Then drive right back out if you don't like what you see.

Returning from Disney to airport.
Use I-4 East (sometimes the signs lead you to I-4 to I-4 east). Then onto 528 (Beach Line) east. Look for and use what looks like an exit ramp to pay toll if you need to use cash. Get off 528 at its exit 9 (Tradeport). Left and cross under. Nice cheap gas station on left. Then get into middle lane with the gas station on your left. Required right onto McCoy, little over a mile is 436 (Semoran Blvd). Right to enter airport, left to go to that expensive gas station and the old Hertz lot.