Pain at the pump refers to the gas pump, as it is known in America. In other parts of the world, the gas pump is known as a fuel dispenser. There is no difference in meaning. Also, gas = gasoline. Idiomatically, even non-gasoline fuel is "the gas pump" (including diesel!).
To experience pain at the gas pump is to be in a state of paying a painful level of money when obtaining fuel for one's vehicle.
Example: Some argue that American news media were more fond of doing "Pain at the Pump" news stories during the Bush administration, but have been reluctant to do the same under the Obama administration, even as prices at the gas pump continue to rise. It is not necessary to agree with this argument to understand this is how the idiom is used.
The cyclical surge at gas pump dispenser is in full gesture, producing the most feared time of year for terrible drivers, particularly of what may still be pending, said Patrick, head of fuel examination for Gas Buddy.
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