More than 70 per cent of Australians say high fuel prices are putting the brakes on their quality of life.
The Canstar Blue survey of consumers also reveals that while petrol prices are hurting, motorists are battling back by making fuel companies win their custom.
"A whopping 66 per cent of respondents are choosing particular service stations where they can use fuel discount dockets and one in two are choosing to refuel on days where prices are typically lower," said Steve Mickenbecker, head of research at retail finance research company Canstar Cannex.
"They are doing their homework to ensure they are getting a good deal when it comes to petrol."
Mr Mickenbecker said 69 per cent of respondents indicated that price is more important than convenience when it comes to filling up their car.
"We were surprised by the survey finding that one in five respondents regularly wait until the red light comes on before refuelling, due to financial pressures," he said.
"Waiting that long to fill up your car will cost you more in the long run because you are not only risking running out of fuel - it can also damage your vehicle."
The independent consumer satisfaction survey of 2500 consumers also indicates that service station brand United beat its competitors by coming out on top with the most satisfied customers.
Customers scored United top marks for every category: overall satisfaction, price of petrol, service, range of items for sale, cleanliness and facilities.
The research reveals that consumers object to the high price of petrol and grocery items within petrol stations; staff pushing other products and services at point of sale; poor condition of facilities such as air pumps and windscreen washing buckets; wait times; and poor service.
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