Topping off the tank of the rental car in San Diego, California... My cousin suggested turning off the freeway before the exit to the Rental Car Facility. We saw a sign for Shell gasoline, but I pointed out that ARCO was right across the street. We compared prices quickly and agreed on ARCO. We paid cash because the price was 20 cents less per gallon! This was a quick stop. It was conveniently close to the freeway entrance and exit! read more

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Great friendly service, I was in need of assistance and the cashier Albert went above and beyond to assist me. He provided excellent customer service . I frequently get gas and snacks at this gas station. Great quality service and products overall. read more

ARCO Station - Gas Stations Near Me - San Diego, California

Pretty simple gas station. You pull in. You pump. You get out. Prices are listed with a sign that's eye level as you enter and not lifted up. There's two sides to enter. Just proceed with caution so you're not running into traffic thats flowing both ways. The entrance to the 163 north and south are right there. Although in Old Town, the prices aren't too bad. I've seen higher ARCO prices in other less touristy spots. The quality is half way decent. There's a small inside store where you can get your usual on the go snacks and drinks. But it's tiny. So your options are limited. It's never too busy. Never seen more than 3 cars in here really. And there are 8 stations to pump plus two that are off to the side that are diesel only. So make sure you look before you park! 3 stars for a good value at a location that is convenient. read more

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I stopped at this gas station and asked for a small amount of drinking water -- something every gas station in California is required to provide for free. I had my own thermos and simply needed some water to take my medication. Instead, the employee demanded a dollar. When I politely declined, he started insulting me. Absolutely disgusting behavior -- a person completely lacking basic decency in communication. I seriously considered returning with the police, but realized I didn't want to get myself dirty dealing with someone like that. Avoid this place if you don't want to be humiliated for making a simple human request. read more

I came in this morning to get a fountain drink. A Coke to be specific. After pouring ice in my cup I noticed the coke option was not working. I leave cup and go grab a bottled drink to pay for instead. Sign said 2/5.50 or 2.99 each. I only needed one. I go to register and guy immediately tells me the cup I did not use was $1 I said it wasn't my fault since coke wasn't working. He proceeds to charge my drink at 3.99 I asked why display showed 2.99 he said price went up. I said it doesn't show that on display. He said ok since you don't wanna pay $1 more I'll just charge you 2.99. I said nevermind and walk out. It hit me in my car that the SOB was adding the $1 of the cup to my soda!!!!! That is illegal!!!!!!! He was so rude!!!!!! Never ever ever again!!!! Stay clear of this gas station!!! They will rob you of your money before your very eyes!!!!!! read more

Dear Store Manager, I am writing this letter to express my immense satisfaction with the outstanding customer service I have received at your Arco store located at 3860 Old Town Ave in San Diego, California. I have been a regular customer at this particular store for quite some time, and I feel compelled to commend the remarkable customer service I recently experienced from one of your employees, Anahy. During a recent visit to your store, I encountered an unexpected act of kindness and exceptional service from Anahy. She not only greeted me with a warm and friendly smile but also took the time to engage in a conversation, making me feel valued as a customer. It was evident that Anahy goes above and beyond to create a welcoming and positive atmosphere in the store, and her charismatic personality was truly a game-changer. What truly impressed me was her ability to handle a challenging situation with grace and professionalism. She was assisting another customer who was clearly agitated, and Anahy managed to de-escalate the situation with remarkable poise and empathy. Her exceptional customer service skills were on full display, and it left a lasting impression on me. Furthermore, Anahy offered me two helpful suggestions for additional products to purchase during my visit. Her recommendations were spot-on and greatly enhanced my shopping experience. It's clear that she is not just there to sell products but genuinely cares about meeting the needs and preferences of the customers. In today's world, where genuine customer service can be a rarity, Anahy's dedication to providing a positive shopping experience is truly commendable. Her strong presence, enthusiasm, and dedication to delivering exceptional customer service make her an asset to your store and the Arco brand as a whole. I believe that employees like Anahy are the ones who set a store apart and build strong customer loyalty. Her exceptional service has made me even more appreciative of being a regular customer at your store. I hope you recognize and reward her outstanding contributions to your team. In conclusion, I would like to thank Anahy for her exceptional service and express my gratitude for making my shopping experience at Arco a memorable and enjoyable one. She is a shining example of what outstanding customer service should be. Thank you for maintaining such a high standard of service at your Arco store. I look forward to continuing to shop at this location and experiencing the exceptional service provided by Anahy. Sincerely, David Fields read more

Arrived to a sign that said shift change, waited 20-30 minutes for worker tonopen up. No one ever popped out. This was at 8 pm, odd time for a shift change, think an employee was just being lazy. Either way, too short staffed to be a useful store. Returned the next day and a worker was inside back room for a bit until I said hello to get their attention to check out. read more

ARCO Station - Trying to buy items, doors been locked for 30 mins. - Gas Stations Near Me - San Diego, California

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I go to this gas station often have been for the past 5 years. The old cashier Sarmad was always super friendly and awesome always helpful with anything i was looking for and made you feel welcome. I think the new cashier who is usually there around 9:30- 2:00 is just a lazy jerk. I was carrying the items I wanted to purchase and he was irritated because i dropped an unopened cup of cereal (it didnt make a mess or anything). He told me to put my stuff on the counter and check out and if I wanted to get more stuff to I had to make another purchase. I just bought what i had and went to another store to buy whatever else snacks I wanted because im not going to use my card and be charged .35 cents twice because he was being an a hole. Honestly probably never going back which sucks because ive gone here at least once a week. Back when Sarmad was working here i would go almost everyday because he was super friendly. They definitely need new staff. read more

This letter in its entirety reflects the incredible character and outstanding performance of Maria - who is an employee at 3860 Old Town Avenue Arco Station in Old Town, a history rich tourist location in San Diego, CA. I have never felt inclined to speak highly of someone in the service industry before in my life. While outstanding workers can be found just about anywhere you look, that is if you look hard enough - Maria outshines the standard impressive employee by leaps and bounds. Her unbelievable dedication to the work she does alone is significant of recognition - but this alone hardly allows anyone to fully grasp the exceedingly impressive ethics she naturally employs - because it's who she is. She is without a shadow of a doubt the kindest, most charismatic, personable, professional, hardworking, person I have ever met in my life. The first time I was blown away was when she was just starting her employment there; either that or I had just missed her every single time before that moment (which I might say is a travesty if such is the case) She was doing what I believe were the beginning of shift counts of some sort, and I asked her a question. Her response was so nice and genuinely kind, I was kind of shocked. In fact, I left a 10 bill on the counter as a "tip" to thank her for being so awesome. Before I could even enter my vehicle, she came out of the store to return my money to me, as she thought I forgot it. When I explained it was for her being so awesome, she still refused it saying, it's my job! From that moment forward I have hoped to catch her on her shift, saying hello like she does. It's the kind of hello that sticks with you the rest of your day - mitigating all the nonsense that comes your way as you navigate life. It's the kind of hello everyone deserves to hear. The Oldtown Arco should be proud to have Maria on staff. I absolutely go to this location more than any other gas station/convenience store simply because I know there is a chance I will be met with the kind of professionalism and kindness that quite frankly, makes your day. Maria naturally offers the kind of experience to everyone that enters that location, that makes them want to come back. The kind of experience that pulls a customer away from checking the price of gas with the competitor next door, to not even caring about the fractions of a dollar they may or may not be saving - because the "feel-good" ambience she brings to the community is priceless. It's the kind of experience you will remember, for the right reasons, not just the first or last time, but every single time. It is very important to me, as a consumer and furthermore, as an Arco regular, to point out how incredible and vibrant Maria's level of diligence and dedication is. I deeply believe whatever it is she is offered for her services at Arco, it needs to reflect an appreciation for what she does during her shifts. It is very important to me, as it is many other customers, that she knows what an amazing job she does and that she is appreciated by her employer. I can almost promise you - that if she moved to a different service location, quite a few customers would probably do the same; for one reason and one reason alone, She is just that damn good. Respectfully, M. J. S. read more

Had to fill up the Sunday before we left home. The gas was $3.44 per gallon + their standard $.35 debit charge. I had an ice chest of water and didn't want to dump it on the curb so I asked the attendant if I could fill up the windshield washer bin with it. He said it was ok. Why waist resources. read more

Not in the best area so you may see some shady looking people hanging around. There are some good things about this place 1. is the location is close to the 5. Number 2 the gas is cheap but watered down. You should probably go to the shell across the street but just so you know after a certain time they lock the doors and you have to talk through a window. So back to am pm be careful if you go by yourself. read more

ARCO Station - Gas Stations Near Me - San Diego, California

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If you're ever in the downtown area, this is the closest option for cheaper gas. Conveniently located right off Old Town Ave - east of the 5 freeway. I was craving an ICEE and unfortunately the convenient store doesn't have much to show forth. Intersection is a little busy since you have the traffic going in and out of Historic Old Town. read more

I stop at this gas station every week since it is on my way to work. It's easily located off the freeway (Old Town exit) and even easier to get back on the freeway. Arco always has good gas prices. The snack store also has a good selection of chips and drinks. They even had the new Hot Cheeto Chipotle Ranch before any other store had it. I had been looking for them for months and was so happy I was able to try them. The cashiers are always friendly. read more

Do not go here! Bought a Starbucks Frappuccino from here and it was spoiled. Way past expiration date!!! read more

ARCO Station - Curdling milk in a brand new coffee - Gas Stations Near Me - San Diego, California

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I work in Old Town and the surrounding area for 5+ years. This is my fav Arco, easy freeway access and access to Old Town & public transit. Yes, occasionally there are transients, but just ignore them and get your fuel. Additionally, they have excellent coffees and tobacco products. Hard-to-find Nat Shermans at the tip top of the display! Keep it up, Ahmad & team ...not the prices, competitive for this area so close to Airport & Attractions! read more

This review if for the attendent, Elizabeth. She is always super nice when i go in for my morning cup of joe. Ya, you heard me correctly. I go to the gas station for coffee. Its cheap, hot, lines are low and like I said, Elizabeth is always in a good mood. Not the fake over the top, that makes me want to puke. read more

Easy to get too and get off of on Old Town Ave off the 5...Usually cheap but right now everywhere you go is expensive ... read more

ARCO Station - Gas Stations Near Me - San Diego, California

This place is horrible. Slowest machine ever. Takes me 5 min to get my credit card approved and never gives you receive at the machine. Do not recommend it at all. There are other gas station with lower prices and way better equipment. read more

ARCO Station - Gas Stations Near Me - San Diego, California

Guess what windshield guys? I don't want your crap, leave me alone. I left after only 2 gallons because some loud idiot doing a FREE SAFETY INSPECTION was hassling me about who I have for auto insurance. Also, I noticed it wasn't any cheaper than the Chevron. never again read more

Thank you to thesweet female employee (wish I'd gotten her name.) I was in a rental car in a rush to fill up to return it to the airport about 4p.m. on July 9, but couldn't for the life of me find how to open the door to the gas cap. She googled it for me (her suggestion) and I was soon on my way; grateful for an employee going above and beyond for a stressed out customer. read more

Charges me 35 cents for gas if I used debit. I accepted. I went to pump the gas and nothing came out literally 20 seconds went by and it charges me the 35 cents without gas. I ended up paying for nothing. 35 cents is really nothing but you would think the company or store management would allow a refund for a clear mistake. Very unfair and unjust. I will add the Worker at the store was really rude. read more

Debit only for pumps. Charges $0.35 to use debit card. Pumps that don't work aren't marked. Pumps don't reach across car, so position your car appropriately. read more

This station has gone way downhill since the last time I used it, which was probably 4-5 years ago. It's got a fantastic location, right next to I-5 with easy on- and off-ramps. My experience there yesterday was very unsatisfactory. I pulled up to an available pump only to find that the display was out of order, showing a multitude of colorful thin vertical lines. HELLO ARCO! HOW HARD IS IT TO WRITE "OUT OF ORDER" ON A SHEET OF PAPER AND TAPE IT TO THE MACHINE? So I moved to another pump. That one worked, however: - The station accepts only ARCO cards and debit cards, not credit cards. That is insane IMO. - I was assessed a 35-cent surcharge on my debit card transaction. That is unconscionable but I went ahead and paid it because I was almost out of fuel and couldn't risk going somewhere else. The debit card charge should be disclosed on the station's signage rather than being sprung on a customer who has already pulled in and presented a card. - The authentication process is the slowest I have ever seen, with unnecessary delays and stupid messages. I know a little about the software used in self-service machines. Those delays are intentional. The authentication process could be almost instantaneous. - A video monitor on the pump played annoying garbage with loud sound. I stood away from it during the pumping operation. I don't even know what kind of content was being displayed, it just sounded too irritating. - The squeegee was small and worn out. - I got the "Clerk has receipt" message, as noted in some other reviews. I didn't go into the store because too much of my time had already been wasted. I wrote the transaction amount in my checkbook and drove off. So, ARCO in Old Town, you have lost an occasional, totally unloyal customer. Next time I'm in that situation I will try the Shell station across the street. read more

I love arco for their cheap prices. If you have ever been to an arco you know the only accept debit and cash. I have an arco debit so sometimes when i want to buy gum i can use this card also for that but only if i tell them first and the attendant is not a complete newbie. Usually has readers out front if you looking for them. read more

Clerks try to scam you. The way overpriced sandwiches, etc, because there's no fast food around Old Town aren't enough. Today I got gas and 2 energy drinks. It seemed way high so I asked for my receipt. He didn't give me the 2fer special and he rang up a third. When I pointed it out he just opened the drawer and threw me three ones, didn't do a return or adjustment or anything. Probably already ran the return when I walked outside before going back in to question the amount. Rip off. read more

This gas station has such poor customer service I won't even give it 1 star. I just put gas in my car and was prompted to get my receipt from inside. It's bad enough that you have to pay a service charge to use your debit card, but you also have to go in and get your receipt. The guy working today logged off the computer and refused to give me my receipt. Apparently the next shift worker was late, and all the customers in line had to pay the price. He was rude and argumentative! Apparently people handing him cash could get service, but he couldn't print receipts? ?? I will never go to this Arco or any other ever again. There are actually people who need jobs that would be a good replacement for that clerk. read more

Was their pumping gas on Fathers day like any other Sunday.,. Went to the cashier named Rani if that's his real name, gave him 20.00 for gas and to to fill up. Results that I tried pumping gas, no gas. Went to the register again and he said I never gave him any cash that I paid with a credit card and I already pumped my gas. Are you kidding me, would not check video treated me like some homeless guy that are around that area and had the nerve to give me the wrong number to his manager. Fricken coward.. Will call Corporate on this one for my money back. Might be cheap gas but taking risk and consequences you don't need.. read more

I bought sandwich, there was small label on the sandwiches each one $2.99 and he charge me $6.88 for the sandwich and the drink, 3 minutes later I did go inside to ask him I showed him the sticker but no money back Iraqi dogs, he told me go see the other ones are 4.99 I did go to see and I notice he changed the labels really fast. This place don't deserve 1 star but 0 stars. read more

ARCO Station - Was not 2.99 but 4.99 - Gas Stations Near Me - San Diego, California

This place is a scam. Don't take credit card and then charge you to use your own debit. Basically they don't want to pay the cost of operating a business so they pass it on to the customer. Disgrace. read more

GPS gives gas station prices, but, I just wanted to make sure it didn't jump since the last update. I called to see how much it was a gallon to see if it was cheaper than other gas stations. The lady says, "I'm in the back, I don't know. You have to come and see it." OMG, what a great marketing line! Make people come there and since you're already there low on gas, might as well pump there and give them money. No thanks!!! read more

worst gas station ever. everything is up charged by like 300% bc sales are so bad. trust me shell is across the street save your money and help put this place out of business. millennials do yo thang. go somewhere else! read more

How can you not take credit cards at the pump? Only debit and cash does not work for most business travelers.

They close the doors at 945 pm to 1000pm to wait for new employee! Plus the gas is off!!! So u can't use the booths.. Sign on door sayes " close come back" read more

The machine shorts you. Our car usually gets 27 mpg. We pumped gas after paying $20 cash and our car only should have needed gallons of gas. It took more than 7 and only stopped because we ran out of cash. Suddenly my car only gets 18 miles per gallon? I mentioned this to them and they said there must be a problem with my car. Also, when we bought something in the store, the cashier shorted us $1 in change. Crooks!! read more

Bad customer service. The cashier needs to smile a little and not have her face like she don't want to be there.