Rockstar Games has defended GTA 6’s controversial refueling mechanic after a creator who previewed the game revealed that stopping at the pump takes around 10 seconds.
Unlike previous Grand Theft Auto games, GTA 6 will require players to monitor how much fuel their vehicle has left. The mechanic first gained widespread attention when leaked gameplay showed a gas gauge alongside the driving UI.
The idea was already divisive among the community. Back in 2024, GTA 6 fans pushed back against calls for a Mafia-style refueling system, with players concerned that running out of gas could interrupt missions or police chases.
Rockstar defends GTA 6’s 10-second refueling animation
In a new video discussing his visit to Rockstar North, YouTuber TGG explained that gas stations let players repair or refuel their vehicles. Electric vehicles can also be recharged.
Selecting the option reportedly begins a brief animation that TGG estimates lasts around 10 seconds.
The preview was overseen by Rockstar North co-studio head Rob Nelson, who highlighted the speed of the process after demonstrating it.
“Hey, that’s pretty fast for a fill-up,” Nelson said, according to PC Gamer. “You can’t complain about that.”
Nelson also acknowledged that Rockstar is waiting to see how players respond, asking TGG whether he thought people would enjoy the system.
TGG does not expect fuel to become a major issue as long as players pay attention to the gauge. However, it could create problems if someone steals a nearly empty vehicle while trying to escape from police.
The feature is one of several ways GTA 6 will require players to think more carefully while committing crimes. It remains unclear how frequently vehicles will need refueling or whether the mechanic can be disabled.
