Introduction
If you're like most drivers, filling up your tank is taking a bigger bite out of your budget than you'd like. But here's some good news: petrol credit card rebates can help ease that burden.
RHB credit cards offer cashback or rebates specifically on fuel purchases, putting some of that hard-earned money back into your pocket.
However, to make the most of these benefits, it's essential to understand how they work and which RHB card aligns best with your driving habits.
What Are Petrol Credit Card Rebates?
Petrol credit card rebates are incentives offered by RHB, where a percentage of your fuel spending is returned to you as cashback or rebate.
Unlike standard cashback offers that apply to a range of purchases, these rebates are specifically for fuel expenses.
Many Malaysian banks partner with fuel stations to offer higher rebates at specific locations, and RHB's cards provide excellent benefits at Shell stations, maximising your savings when you fuel up there.
How Do Petrol Credit Card Rebates Work?
Here’s a breakdown of rebate structures available through RHB:
Cashback Rebates
A fixed percentage of your fuel spending is returned to you. For instance, the RHB Shell Visa Credit Card offers up to 12% cashback at Shell.Tiered Rebates
The rebate percentage increases as your monthly spending reaches certain thresholds. The RHB Shell Visa Credit Card provides higher rebates based on your monthly fuel spend.
Calculating Your Savings: How Much Can You Really Save?
Let's break it down with real examples.
Suppose you drive about 1,500 km a month, and your car consumes 8 litres per 100 km. That's 120 litres of fuel monthly. With RON95 petrol priced at RM2.05 per litre, you're spending RM246 a month on fuel. Here’s how the RHB Shell Visa Credit Card can help you save:
RHB Shell Visa Credit Card
Rebate Structure
:- 5% cashback for monthly spending between RM800 and RM1,499.
- 12% cashback for spends of RM2,500 and above.
Monthly Cap
: RM50.Potential Savings
: If you spend RM246 on fuel at Shell and your total monthly credit card spending is RM1,000, you'll get 5% cashback, which is RM12.30. Over a year, that's RM147.60 saved.
RHB Credit Cards with Excellent Petrol and Cashback Rewards
Here's a closer look at what select RHB credit cards offer you:
RHB Cashback Credit Card
Key Features
: General cashback across various categories.Fuel Cashback/Rewards
: Up to 5% cashback on fuelAdditional Perks
: Up to 10% cashback on online dining/groceries, utilities, and more.Eligibility & Fees
: Minimum annual income of RM24,000.
RHB Shell Visa Credit Card
Key Features
: Tailored for those who frequent Shell stations.Fuel Cashback/Rewards
: Up to 12% cashback at Shell.Additional Perks
: Up to 5% cashback on Groceries, Online Spend, eWallet, etc.Eligibility & Fees
: Minimum annual income of RM24,000.
How to Choose the Right Petrol Credit Card for You
Consider these five important factors when choosing an RHB petrol credit card:
Fuel Station Preference
Stick to RHB’s Shell-focused card if you regularly fill up at Shell stations. However, an RHB Cashback Credit Card is your best option if you usually switch between different petrol stations.
Driving Frequency
The more you drive, the more you save with higher cashback caps.
Spending Habits
If you have higher monthly expenses, the tiered rebates of the RHB Shell Visa Credit Card may benefit you more.
Annual Fees
Ensure the savings from rebates outweigh the card's annual fee.
Additional Perks
Benefits like retail discounts via merchant deals and offers add extra value to the card.
Tips to Maximize Rebates
Combine rebates
Pair your RHB credit card rebates with fuel station loyalty programs like BonusLink at Shell to get extra savings.
Take advantage of cashback any day, anytime
Feel free to pump petrol for your car according to your schedule. A flexible way for you to earn cashback when you want.
Monitor your spending
Regularly review your monthly spending to ensure you meet minimum requirements without overspending.
Spend across multiple categories
Use your RHB credit cards during your usual shopping routines. Spending across multiple categories will help you maximise your cashback.
Common Pitfalls: What to Watch Out For
Annual Fees
High fees can negate your savings. Look for credit cards that waive fees upon meeting certain criteria.
Minimum Spending Requirements
Some cards require you to spend a specific amount monthly to qualify for higher rebates.
Rebate Caps
Be aware of monthly cashback limits.
Fuel Type Restrictions
Some cards may exclude diesel or only apply to specific fuel grades.
Payment Timeliness
Always pay your credit card bills on time to avoid interest charges that can wipe out your savings.
Additional Perks to Look Out For
Beyond petrol rebates, RHB credit cards offer additional benefits, such as:
CashXcess:
Get extra cash fast through withdrawal limits of up to 80% of your credit limit.Dial-an-Instalment:
Convert your purchases into flexible monthly instalments for a small fee.Balance Transfer:
Transfer your outstanding balance to your RHB credit card at 0% p.a. for 12 monthsLifestyle Rewards
: Discounts on dining, shopping, and entertainment.
Conclusion: Maximising Your Savings on Fuel
RHB petrol credit card rebates are a practical way to reduce your fuel expenses amidst rising costs.
By understanding how these rebates work and selecting an RHB card that fits your lifestyle, you’ll enjoy significant savings over time.
Take a closer look at your driving habits, evaluate RHB’s options, and choose a petrol credit card that keeps your journeys smooth and your wallet happy.