Short Answer 
Tim should evaluate the costs of returning a rental car late with self-refueling versus returning it on time and paying the rental company’s refueling charges. After calculations, Option B (returning on time) is the cheaper option at $32.00 compared to Option A’s $47.54, making it the best choice.
Step 1: Understand the Costs of Each Option
Before making a decision, Tim should clearly outline the costs associated with both options. Each option includes different refueling and rental charges. It’s crucial to calculate the total cost for both scenarios to see which one is cheaper:
- Option A: Return late with self-refueling costs.
- Option B: Return on time and pay the rental company’s refueling costs.
Step 2: Calculate the Total Costs
Next, Tim needs to calculate the exact amounts for each option. This involves determining how much fuel is needed and multiplying by the fuel price:
- For Option A: 6 gallons at $2.59 per gallon plus a $32 rental fee results in a total of $47.54.
- For Option B: 6 gallons at $4.50 per gallon plus a $5 refueling fee totals $32.00.
Step 3: Compare and Evaluate the Cheaper Option
After calculating the totals, Tim should compare the two totals to determine which option is less expensive. It’s essential to analyze the implications of each choice beyond just costs:
- Option A’s total is $47.54.
- Option B’s total is only $32.00, making it the more economical choice.
Therefore, returning the car on time and paying the refueling costs is the best choice for Tim.