Fuel availability and shortages

At the Altanbulag border crossing in Mongolia, fuel is typically only available for purchase during the morning hours. Travelers should plan their fuel stops accordingly.

Fuel availability in Mongolia can be volatile, especially in remote aimags. Shortages have been reported where only one station in a district remains operational. Travelers are advised to refuel at every opportunity and carry spare fuel if traveling through isolated areas.

Fuel availability in Mongolia can be inconsistent, especially outside major cities. For example, in Ulgi, gas may be available at stations but not dispensed into canisters. Hovd and Darkhan have reported empty gas stations. In Tsereg, a traveler managed to get fuel into canisters by booking a hotel room at 'Altan Teel', at a price of 5500 MNT per liter. In Altai, the 'Petroleum' station on the western entrance offers gas at 3370 MNT. Bayankhongor experiences extremely long and chaotic queues at gas stations, with some vehicles abandoned, possibly awaiting delivery. It is advisable to refuel whenever possible, particularly when traveling through remote areas.

Many vehicles in Mongolia, particularly Japanese imports, are designed for 95 octane fuel. However, drivers report successfully using 92 octane fuel without issues, especially if the vehicle's ECU is tuned for Euro 2 standards or supports a 91-95 octane range. For instance, a Lexus RX 350 has been driven on 92 octane in Ulaanbaatar for three weeks without problems. To mitigate potential issues, using fuel system cleaners or octane boosters like 'High Gear' is recommended if available. In situations where 95 octane is scarce, 92 octane appears to be a viable alternative for many vehicles.

Gasoline, including 95 octane (sometimes labeled 'Euro'), is available at filling stations in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. Prices vary, but 92 Euro gasoline was observed at approximately 4100 MNT. Availability and specific grades should be confirmed locally upon arrival.

Fuel shortages in Mongolia are reported. Key tips for travelers: 1. Avoid searching for fuel at night; supply lines are unpredictable. 2. Join queues early in the morning. 3. Some petrol stations (e.g., Petrovis) may offer fuel to tourists out of turn if politely requested by the driver. 4. Use Google Translate to communicate with station attendants. 5. Availability is significantly better in Ulaanbaatar city center compared to rural areas.

As of recently, 92-octane fuel was priced at 3450 MNT at TES Petroleum stations. This specific station was not located directly on the main highway but within a city, and it had a short queue of 2 cars.

In Ulgii, Mongolia, 92 octane gasoline was available at one station, but it was not dispensed into canisters. Fuel availability can be inconsistent.

As of yesterday, gasoline was available and inexpensive when entering Mongolia via Kyakhta. However, today, queues for fuel have formed in the capital (Ulaanbaatar) and its surrounding areas. It is advisable to refuel in border regions or prior to reaching the capital if traveling soon.

Fuel availability can be an issue in certain parts of Mongolia; for example, in Ulgii, finding 95 or 92 octane gasoline has been reported as difficult. In the Altai region, new regulations limit vehicle refueling to once every 24 hours, with daily volume limits (30-50 liters of gasoline, 50-100 liters of diesel depending on the district). Vehicle registration documents are required for refueling, and systems track vehicle numbers. However, using cash or different payment cards might allow for multiple refueling instances within a 24-hour period. A gas station with Euro-92 is located uphill on the road from Tashanta.

Gasoline availability in Ulaanbaatar city center is limited. It is more common on the outskirts or ring roads. If stranded in the center, drivers may need to travel to find a gas station.

Fuel availability in Mongolia varies. In Ulaanbaatar, some stations have limits (50-60k MNT, approx. 20L of 92 octane) or operate on a lottery basis. One traveler found unlimited 92 octane at 4350 MNT and another at 2950 MNT for tourist transport. Diesel is generally available. Russian border regulations limit export of fuel to 10 liters per vehicle. While 13-15 liters might pass without issue, it's advisable to comply with regulations.

In Ulgii and Khovd, Mongolia, 92 RON gasoline is readily available. 95 RON gasoline is also available but not at all stations, requiring some planning for longer trips.

There is currently a fuel shortage in parts of Mongolia, specifically affecting 'Petrovis' stations in regions like Khanh, Murun, and Tariat. Travelers report fuel outages. It is advised to carry extra fuel. Relying on unknown local gas stations carries the risk of fuel system contamination, as evidenced by reports of travelers needing vehicle repairs after refueling at non-standard stations.

As of today in Darkhan, large queues were observed at all gas stations, with some stations closed. Despite closures, people were waiting for gasoline. Specific operating hours for gas stations are unclear, but availability seems to be the main concern, suggesting they operate when fuel is present.