In the activity described in this communication, the authors present a simple experiment that can be implemented with moderate operational costs and that allows students to acquire the manipulative skills necessary for chromatographic analysis of a familiar fuel that still plays a fundamental role in providing energy for transport of passengers and goods. The use of gasoline formulations in a laboratory activity presents students with a motivating subject of study and an opportunity to apply analytical procedures to the characterization of controlled substances used in vehicle fuel formulations.