What Happens If You Overfill Your Gas Tank?

If you’ve ever wondered about the repercussions of an overfilled gas tank, our Toyota of Orlando team is here with some helpful information and tips. An overfilled gas tank isn’t a super common issue, but of course, this happens every now and then and can cause quite a panic if you’re unprepared. Let’s talk about what to do when you overfill your gas tank and what kind of damage it can cause to your vehicle. 

Consequences Of An Overfilled Gas Tank

So, What happens if you overfill your gas tank at the gas station? An overfilled gas tank can actually cause real damage to your vehicle (not to mention stain your shoes!). It causes problems with fuel efficiency, the emissions system, and starting and accelerating. Also, gasoline can pollute soil and water sources when spilled on the ground. Here’s what our Orlando Toyota team can share about it: 

Purge Valve Failure: This can end in rough idling, poor fuel efficiency, and emission issues.

Damaged Solenoids: If this happens, it can actually prevent your vehicle from starting. 

Saturated Charcoal Canister: This can make things difficult when you try to fill your car with gas, and it can create the smell of gasoline in the cabin. 

Let’s talk about what to do if you find yourself in this situation!

What to do when you overfill your gas tank

Okay, so if you overfill the gas tank just one time, it probably won’t cause your Orlando Toyota vehicle any harm. However, gasoline is a huge fire hazard, and you should definitely try to clean yourself and your car up as quickly as you can. The best thing you can do after that is take steps to prevent this from happening again. Here are some of the ways you can avoid an overfilled gas tank:

Stay close to the pump! Don’t leave your car unattended while gas is pumping. It can be tempting, especially when using the lock on the pump handle - but you want to be there to keep an eye on it.

When you hear the click indicating that your tank is full, take the pump out immediately. Whether you’re holding the pump yourself or have it locked in place, be ready to remove it quickly. 

There’s no need to attempt “topping off” your gas tank. Once you hear the click, your tank is full! Trying to add a little more will either do nothing or cause the tank to overflow, so it’s not really worth the risk. 

Visit Toyota of Orlando for More Fuel Related Info

Now you know what happens if you overfill your gas tank, but if you have other questions we’re happy to help! Contact Toyota of Orlando’s service techs today at (407) 298-0001 or stop by and see us at 3575 Vineland Road. We’re just off I-4 across from the Mall at Millenia!