Coming up empty when needing air at gas stations

QI had my tire pressure sensor go off while coming home from work from San Jose on Monday, so I stopped by a 76 gas station and its air machine was broken. So then I went to a Valero station in Hayward and it had an issue with its air compressor as well. I finally made it home to Dublin and pulled into a Shell station. Same problem. Out of order. I can’t believe three different stations in three different towns were having issues. — Jess Hutchins, Dublin

A Believe it. Q Recently, I needed to put air in my tires. I went to two gas stations in the Powell Street area of Emeryville. Both air pumps were not working. This has also happened several times in the past in several parts of the Bay Area. I went to Safeway in Dublin. The sign on that pump said pay $1.50 by charge card. I put in my charge card and still was not able to pump air. — Carl Tilchen

A I turn to one of my heavy hitters — Tomthe-Rotten-Robbie- Gas-Man who says: “Back when gas stations did mechanical work, all stations had air compressors. Tires were sold and flats were fixed. Compressors rarely broke. Consumers now get their tires at big-box stores or tire stores. Service work is done at quick lubes, etc. Places that sell gasoline now do not have lube bays and have no need for air compressors.

“But gas stations are required to have air and water, so many contract it out to companies that provide small self- contained units. These break more frequently and/ or the hose is damaged. When that happens, 100 percent of the air is out of service. It is a service that is required to be provided, but it is frequently not provided well.”

Q I stopped at a Chevron station and asked to have the air turned on and this discussion ensued:

Attendant: “May I see your receipt?”

“Me: “I didn’t buy any gas.”

Attendant: “I can’t turn it on.”

Me: “It’s the law. You have to provide it.”

Attendant: “Chevron won’t let us do that.”

So I went to an ARCO and aired up. — Sally Pyle

A The attendant was right. Stations do not have to provide free air and water for nonpaying customers.

Q Is there a full-service gas station in San Jose? I can’t check the oil and tire pressure myself. I would be happy to pay a premium or a fee for full service of $10, maybe $15. — Phil

A Roadshow faithful, let’s help Phil out.