Never top off your tank

Sdílet
Vložit
  • čas přidán 31. 05. 2024
  • Mechanic's advice on why you should Never top off your tank! I explain why it's a very bad idea to overfill your car's gas tank in simple form.
    People often overfill or top off their fuel tank, I see it everyday and a lot of people often ask what's the harm? Why is it a problem to top off my tank?
    I make a visual presentation of what really happens when you top off your car's gas tank.
    If you have any questions please email me at also follow the channel on instagram and facebook @thecarcarenut
    #thecarcarenut
  • Auta a dopravní prostředky

Komentáře • 2,6K

  • @evankolpack
    @evankolpack Před rokem +474

    I have regularly topped off my tank for years. Never again. Thanks for actually explaining the problem. I generally ignore being told what to do simply "because I said so" or "because that's what the experts say", but when it's clearly and logically explained, that makes all the difference in the world. THANK YOU!!

    • @mandatorymyocarditis8579
      @mandatorymyocarditis8579 Před rokem +13

      I also have a habit of ignoring what other people say. lol. Hope I can change.

    • @joeirwin269
      @joeirwin269 Před rokem +18

      I might agree if I ever had fuel odors. I have always topped my tanks; besides, according to him, do it once and damage is done. Why stop topping off if the damage is done? I can get 2-3 gallons more after auto stop.

    • @jaysant6958
      @jaysant6958 Před rokem

      @@joeirwin269 😂

    • @armchairtin-kicker503
      @armchairtin-kicker503 Před rokem +9

      @@joeirwin269 More gross weight reduce gas mileage. So although you improve your vehicle's range, you increase the cost. Accordingly, it is best to travel near curb weight as practical. For example, 15 gal. of fuel adds 91.5 libs of gross weight to a vehicle, decreasing miles/gal.

    • @mariaperez-cuatzilo7864
      @mariaperez-cuatzilo7864 Před rokem +6

      I never overfill my tank here in new jersey they do that

  • @EdwinChenLoo
    @EdwinChenLoo Před 11 měsíci +54

    Suggestion noted. Gas tanks are typically laying horizontally on the bottom while the engine sits higher. The gas station pump has a sensor at the tip to stop when the gas level reaches pretty much at engine height levels. If this was true, even filling the tank after the first stop would be bad. So I researched this and found countermeasures are in place:
    "The fuel tank typically has a vent control valve sitting on top of the fuel tank which allows only gas vapors to escape to the charcoal canister.
    When a fuel tank is completely filled, this vent valve gets immersed in liquid gasoline but it closes the outlet passage to the charcoal canister thereby preventing liquid gas from reaching the charcoal canister. "
    This is why many people have been able to do it for years ok.
    However, there is indeed a danger if the canister gets liquid gas:
    "This affects the charcoal pellet particles and it no more maintains its porous structure which then gets converted into a fine powder and would reach the purge valve and air intake manifold eventually clogging it."

    • @rudetoy8264
      @rudetoy8264 Před 4 měsíci

      Beside vent control valve on top of fuel tank, the gas station also has pump stop built in evident by the first click

    • @gregggoldstein3449
      @gregggoldstein3449 Před 2 měsíci +1

      This explains why my 74 Dodge Coronet was found in the exhaust system charcoal like build up on the inside walls of the exhaust tubes as the muffler installer who removed my old one had shown me. And i could barely fit my pinky finger inside the charcoal hole! Was amazing the shear back pressure that successfully exited through this narrow portion of the exhaust pipe.

  • @n3gl3ctfounder
    @n3gl3ctfounder Před rokem +135

    Most vehicles are designed to spill out the hole instead of leaking into the vapor. But it is definitely still possible to spill over to the vapor. Great video.

    • @bradz9413
      @bradz9413 Před 11 měsíci +2

      Like the 2015 VW Golf R? 🥶

  • @jimjefftube
    @jimjefftube Před rokem +77

    I have to be honest. I started watching your video with skepticism but by the end of the video you explained it in a way that we could all understand. Thank you, I will avoid overfilling!

  • @jbaby007
    @jbaby007 Před 2 lety +29

    I really wish I had a general car maintenance class growing up.

  • @choysum2508
    @choysum2508 Před 2 lety +40

    Thanks a lot, Gentleman, for sincerely warning people not to overfill.

  • @johncowhig7196
    @johncowhig7196 Před 22 dny +1

    Car care guy, thank you for explaining this. I sometimes top off my car but I won't evermore. I just didn't understand the video but I have trust in you.

  • @wesleykelly2133
    @wesleykelly2133 Před rokem +18

    This is probably the best and most comprehensive explanation I’ve seen on CZcams. Thanks for making this video.

  • @hiben6938
    @hiben6938 Před 3 lety +289

    I do emission testing in Texas and this is the number two reasons why cars fail the test. People don't know it's bad to top off or think it's a myth. Great Vid!

    • @ryans413
      @ryans413 Před rokem +8

      Not just that it can make the engine run rough it screws up the EVAP system

    • @sweethart2540
      @sweethart2540 Před rokem +4

      I always did this to my crv and true indeed, paid so much for repair.

    • @govinda102000
      @govinda102000 Před rokem +4

      @@johnpo2422 Yep. The guy who owned my corolla before me had it replaced twice as he always topped off the tank.

    • @alvinsimba734
      @alvinsimba734 Před rokem +3

      @@govinda102000 thankfully I only did it once with my 2020 corolla but after watching this video, never did it again

    • @geraldsmith7240
      @geraldsmith7240 Před rokem

      Wow!
      That’s Really Something. More People Should Know. But Then The New Car Dealerships Wouldn’t Get, There Greedy Money.🙄

  • @anthonyemmm
    @anthonyemmm Před 2 lety +48

    Yup I just changed my purge valve out last month. The dealer wanted $600 just for the purge valve repair. I bought the part and did it myself for $60. Good thing it was easy to get to. Thanks for this valuable info.

    • @jetboy770371
      @jetboy770371 Před rokem

      What did you do about the fuel fume canister ?

  • @markphilpot8734
    @markphilpot8734 Před rokem +132

    This is the first time I have ever heard of this. Why? Keep us uninformed and a shop makes off like a bandit. You are opening ears, eyes and minds. Way to go AMD! Bravo goes to you for your honesty and truthfulness!

    • @chaoscobraflashbacks5044
      @chaoscobraflashbacks5044 Před rokem +7

      Why would a shop tell you this? They’re job is to fix whatever problem you created. They’ arent here to tell you anything

    • @markphilpot8734
      @markphilpot8734 Před rokem +10

      @@chaoscobraflashbacks5044, calm down before you stroke out. There is little honesty in today’s world. No one expects a shop to tell anyone anything sir. Kicking me isn’t helping anyone, you included.

    • @chaoscobraflashbacks5044
      @chaoscobraflashbacks5044 Před rokem +6

      @@markphilpot8734 im not kicking you, your talking like your are entitled to get this kind of info from a shop.

    • @musicalwithashis
      @musicalwithashis Před rokem +4

      By the way I own a Volkswagen and this info is available on owners manual.

    • @indyguy3400
      @indyguy3400 Před rokem +9

      How about using logic and thinking, when it clicks and stops its full. There's a reason it's made that way. Stop thinking you're smarter than the way the system was designed.

  • @hadiya2179
    @hadiya2179 Před rokem +6

    I've been doing years on various brand of cars and motorcycles. I must be very lucky. Nothing happened so far. Your explanation makes sense. No more over filling. Thanks

  • @alperalp7407
    @alperalp7407 Před 2 lety +146

    Thanks a lot for that. I have to say that, I have been reading and watching a lot from engineers and mechanics about common problems. This is the first time I hear such a simple and descriptive explanation.

  • @rickbria8420
    @rickbria8420 Před rokem +54

    You are 100% correct! I’m a retired Subaru shop foreman. I worked at the same dealership for 42 years. The last thing a tech wants to see is a CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WITH AN EVAP code. not only is it extremely expensive for the customer, it’s not a fun thing to fix. Great video.

    • @dimitriberozny3729
      @dimitriberozny3729 Před rokem +1

      Efuck issue!!

    • @darin5794
      @darin5794 Před rokem +1

      Thanks for letting us know.

    • @slapdat.byteme
      @slapdat.byteme Před rokem +3

      Kia techs cleared the Check Engine light in my wife’s Sportage a couple times but couldn’t tell me what was causing the light to come on. They checked the fuel system, gas cap seal, etc. Hasn’t come on in years since we stopped adding fuel when the gas pump shuts off.

  • @bobbybryant3339
    @bobbybryant3339 Před 6 měsíci +4

    Thanks for that tip. I will no longer overfill my gas tank.

  • @robertchen8297
    @robertchen8297 Před rokem +49

    Wow, this is the first time I am learning about this and I have smelled these fumes before. In our country, the gas station attendants typically like to overfill maybe to get max sales. I have begun to watch your videos and I love your outstanding knowledge and talent plus integrity in your expertise. (Scott Kilmer is probably a close second!). Your videos are also so professionally done so it seems you have superb multi-dimension skills. Thank you for your videos.

  • @BTS-zq2vy
    @BTS-zq2vy Před 2 lety +71

    Darn, I saw people doing it (topping or rounding up) at gas pumps and learned to do it too ever since! Thanks for the video.

  • @SreeOne
    @SreeOne Před 2 lety +43

    I've been doing this for the past few years, so far my ToYo has been kind on me. I wont do it any more. Thanks CC-Nut, you are obsessed with this knowledge and to share it with all. Thank you.

  • @anthonydiaz3350
    @anthonydiaz3350 Před rokem +8

    You’re one of the only a few people who’s ever explain that in detail like that to me I will stop doing that today. Thank you.

  • @ManCaveStudio
    @ManCaveStudio Před 3 lety +128

    WOW! I never knew this was bad for the car. I owned a 2003 Corolla for 12 years. I would fill to the cap on long trips which was almost every weekend. I was able to get an extra 2 gallons into the tank on average once the gas nozzle clicked off. On long trips, this would give me at least 60 to 70 extra miles. I use to love doing this to see how much of a trip I could get on a topped-off tank. My best was 488 miles. I maybe could have gone more but didn't want to risk running out of gas. In the 12 years, I owned the car I never had a problem with the EVAP. My current Corolla I continue to do the same things on long trips but after watching this video I will stop. I had no idea the damage I could potentially do to my car. Thanks for making this video.

    • @andrewmxdiagrams3258
      @andrewmxdiagrams3258 Před 3 lety +15

      I did it for 17 years to my Toyota Prius 2001, 14 years to Sienna and never had any problem with EVAP system. I think Toyota is made the way it does not affect canister. It will depend at what level canister is mounted and the hoses routing.

    • @niaz.shovon
      @niaz.shovon Před 2 lety +9

      I also own a 2003 Corolla, and I used to overfill the gas tank as well. Here in my country only gas station attendants are allowed to fill the gas tank, and they always overfill it. From now on I'm gonna strongly insist them not to do so.

    • @DylanL69
      @DylanL69 Před 2 lety +5

      @@andrewmxdiagrams3258 oh yes they do get effected

    • @emilegro
      @emilegro Před 2 lety +7

      Also did the same on my 2003 Toyota Tazz / Conquest (South Africa), but I had to remove an "airlock" in the engine bay to squeeze in an extra 10 liters of fuel. I think the vehicle having carburator instead of fuel injection might have made the difference as well. Never had any issues either.

    • @edsaurette8741
      @edsaurette8741 Před 2 lety +5

      God bless you

  • @flagmichael
    @flagmichael Před 3 lety +126

    I knew about this (and the prices!) for several years, but wondered why I had never seen a CZcams video on it. Good work!

  • @dwfantom5892
    @dwfantom5892 Před rokem +41

    Wow! You are very thoughtful and generous in sharing your knowledge. I have made the mistake of over filling my tank many times and the result was exactly as you’ve explained. I had to dish out some money to get the purge valve and canister changed out. If I hadn’t seen your video, I would have continued to overfill and perhaps reaped another round of repairs…
    Thank you so much for making this video! May the good Lord bless you!

    • @rscott2247
      @rscott2247 Před 11 měsíci +1

      I have an 08 Sienna with over 226,000 miles and I have noticed that I can usually put another 2-3 gallons in it after the gas clicks off. I don't smell any fumes but lately my oxygen fuel sensors have been throwing check engine light on and there needing to be replaced. But I don't know if its related to normal wear & tear ?

  • @susank4878
    @susank4878 Před 7 měsíci +2

    Very helpful! Makes excellent sense. Since in Oregon we don't pump our own gasoline, I suspect that the best way to prevent the employees from shoving extra gas in is probably to prepay for a certain number of dollars, knowing that the tank will not be quite full.

  • @Trevorfoggia
    @Trevorfoggia Před rokem +5

    I’m 60 and I’ve been brimming my tank every single time. I never knew this valuable info. Thank you so much.
    Greetings from Cumbria in the U.K.
    Stay safe and well.

  • @angel1seven1
    @angel1seven1 Před 2 lety +25

    In all my years, I did not know , over filling ,could cause so much damage to my car. And the reason for not over filling. Thank you for this Vital information.

  • @gm2256
    @gm2256 Před rokem +11

    Great helpful visual. Every mechanic says “don’t overfill” so I’ve always listened, but it’s nice to see it shown exactly why you don’t want to overfill. Thank you!

  • @wolfeadventures
    @wolfeadventures Před rokem +20

    As someone who loves cars and has been driving them for 30 years, I never knew the risks of topping off. I’ve been topping off for years one to get more gas into the tank and two to round off to even numbers. I won’t be doing it anymore. Thank you for this information!

  • @kenm7179
    @kenm7179 Před 3 lety +20

    I never realized this. Have occasionally topped off in the past, won't do it again. And btw, just had to buy a replacement evap canister (used, hope it's good- haven't installed it yet). There seem to be about a hundred elements to the emissions systems, all of which can set off the damn check engine light!!!! Update- the used canister from ebay solved the problem (I paid a pro to install it). So, after replacing the gas cap, and the filler tube, and now the canister, it's been good for 4K miles so far.

  • @fredericagullo208
    @fredericagullo208 Před 3 lety +23

    I had no idea.
    I will remedy my behaviour and educate my learner children.
    Thank you so much.
    God bless.
    You are definitely a blessing.
    Frederic

  • @user-tw6ho3cc3l
    @user-tw6ho3cc3l Před rokem +1

    Finally someone intelligent enough to explain the why.

  • @mtbwill69
    @mtbwill69 Před 11 měsíci +5

    On just about every car ever made made, the vent valve is normal open. It only closes to check the EVAP system for leaks when the PCM runs the test cycle. If you are getting liquid fuel into the EVAP canister it is because the roll over valve in the fuel tank has failed. In most cases, this will require a fuel tank replacement and likely a new canister. This has nothing to do with how much fuel you put into your tank. The fuel tank is designed to accept a full condition without damaging the EVAP system.

  • @Wilson632
    @Wilson632 Před 2 lety +51

    I have to admit this is first time I heard
    this explained in detail better late than never thank you good buddy for saving us a few bucks. You're a good man and hope that your business is blessed abundantly✌

  • @eddiedav6162
    @eddiedav6162 Před 3 lety +21

    It was my habit over 40 years now i have to stop it thank you

  • @rontiemens2553
    @rontiemens2553 Před 2 lety +40

    I think this is the clearest explanation of the nature and operation of the EVAP system I have ever seen. Thank you!

  • @traeucity6087
    @traeucity6087 Před 2 lety +16

    Thank you, very much. I have topped off my gas tanks my entire life. This being something that became an issue in 1996, explains a lot. I learned from those older than me, and it wasn't an issue for the cars of my youth. In fact, I can remember my friends and I, shaking our cars, in order to get more gas in the tank. I topped off the tank in my F-150, as recently as last week. I'm glad CZcams suggested your video.

  • @isaiasacuna8695
    @isaiasacuna8695 Před rokem +35

    Thanks for the insight, I’ve heard about not over filling your gas tank but never had this explanation. Thanks, I’m sure other mechanics are going to be very mad at you for informing car owners on what not to do. Other mechanics will lose out on overcharging for those repairs.

    • @LynxStarAuto
      @LynxStarAuto Před rokem +3

      Actually, we hate evap system codes. They are a pain to check sealing integrity on, and require expensive tooling (smoke machine, scan tool with bi-directional controls) to properly diagnose.
      It's why so many shops guess at these repairs. They just throw parts at it, in hopes that it fixes it.
      But no technician wants to dabble with an evap system fault. The gravy lies elsewhere.

  • @jerryq1000
    @jerryq1000 Před rokem +1

    I've been guilty of topping off for years...no more. NOW, it's been explained. Thank you.

  • @renecintronjr.2262
    @renecintronjr.2262 Před 2 lety +53

    I've been a DIY for years. And I never knew this. Great presentation! Great information. Thank you!

  • @ralphchristianson
    @ralphchristianson Před 3 lety +66

    Many years ago i had a Chevy Malibu, I was one of those people who actually read the manual. It had a page explaining this, suggesting to not to top off the gas. They did not go into this much detail, but it was suggested the system in the car was designed for the owner to not top off the gas. This is an excellent explanation of how this all works.

    • @jsteganius6969
      @jsteganius6969 Před rokem +3

      Excellent explanation!!!! Step to the head of the class!!!!! If all else fails, read the owners manual!!!!

    • @frandanco6289
      @frandanco6289 Před 9 měsíci

      So... If the car makers Know, this topping off will harm the vehicle, WHY don't they make the gas tanks SMALLER, or put the evap canister higher underneath the car so the "extra" gas will not reach it????

  • @papacamino2286
    @papacamino2286 Před rokem +2

    Been doing it for over 40 years have never had a issue,not worth it anymore for all the right reasons,great video,thanks!

  • @dasboot5903
    @dasboot5903 Před rokem

    I was filling up my tank to the max for a while ..... when the gasoline prices jumped up !!!!
    Then I heard about this particular issue of the EVAP ... so, I stopped filling the tank to the max.
    I had some problems with EVAP for a while ..... than after changing the valve I had less and less "CHECK ENGINE" light appeared on my dashboard !!!!
    *So .... your honest WARNING makes perfect and absolute sense !!!!*
    Thank you so much !!!!

  • @waitawhileexplorer3904
    @waitawhileexplorer3904 Před 11 měsíci +5

    This all makes sense and goes against what was instilled in me many years ago. Time to stop overfilling as it is not necessary as you have explained. Thank you for this insight.

  • @emtlao
    @emtlao Před 3 lety +327

    Ok, now I know now. I’ve been over filling my new 2020 Tacoma trying to get extra mile. I know now. Thank you for letting everybody know.

    • @richardbreese9590
      @richardbreese9590 Před rokem

      No Shit dumby it costs to f%$#@ing much FJB

    • @southmark
      @southmark Před rokem +1

      @@captainamericaamerica8090 It's got nothing to do the quality of modern fuels.
      (ESIM) pump & charcoal vapor cannisters are not designed to accept liquid gasoline ( introduced by overfilling the fuel tank), only gasoline vapors, and can be destroyed over time or one time .
      It will cause the check engine ( MIL) light to illuminate. JEEPS are prone to this as well.

    • @arnelachivar6743
      @arnelachivar6743 Před rokem +3

      @@captainamericaamerica8090 i think it is not about gas being clean but about vent being wet.

    • @hamiltonzuniga
      @hamiltonzuniga Před rokem +8

      Bro, this doesnt make sense… I own a 2012 Toyota Camry, which I bought new in 2012… it now has 505,255 miles… I have always filled it till gas is visible all the way to the top of the tank… I have never had issues with my car and just had to replace my alternator at 247,000 miles and radiator at 293,000 miles.. suspension, has got control arms and struts replaced at every 70,000 miles…I do it myself to save myself money.

    • @TheJunior1964
      @TheJunior1964 Před rokem +5

      I have also been filling it to the top for years and I never had a problem

  • @davidmair7497
    @davidmair7497 Před 3 lety +8

    Great info. No problem in the UK. Fuel cost so much I can not afford to fill the tank never mind top it off.

  • @Srulio
    @Srulio Před 7 měsíci

    Thanks for this clear explantion. It is hard to create systems that are foolproof when the idiots are so persistent!

  • @ronrubicon1593
    @ronrubicon1593 Před 11 měsíci +1

    Good video, Nut. Your diagram and clear explanation really helps folks who are ignorant about how vehicles work.

  • @nononsenseBennett
    @nononsenseBennett Před 3 lety +39

    EXCELLENT information. Thank you for educating people. It's a sign you are a good mechanic who cares.

  • @theraptorus
    @theraptorus Před 3 lety +10

    I did this a good bit on my 2008 Toyota Corolla. In 2016, the “Check Engine” light came on and when I called the Toyota maintenance department, they asked if I tighten the gas cap, which wasn’t the case. Turns out there was something wrong with something in the engine. Repair cost was about $700-$800. Needless to say, I never overfilled on gas again after that. After watching this video I learned even more about the consequences of over filling on gas.

    • @MegaFinalRound
      @MegaFinalRound Před 2 lety +1

      Did they ever figure out the root cause? 🤔

  • @syedali5169
    @syedali5169 Před rokem +6

    Thank you for a very informative video...never ever imagined, or heard of this before! Have noticed a lot of people topping off at gas stations - and I must admit I have done it a few times too.

  • @jjpac2011
    @jjpac2011 Před 3 lety +17

    I have a 2011 Tacoma and 2014 Rav and usually top off until I can see the gas level. Hopefully I've dodged the bullet since no "Check Engine" light has come on and I still have no gasoline smell in my garage. Thanks to you, not doing that behavior again. Dealerships should be emphasizing the consequences of this activity.

  • @dongourlay6192
    @dongourlay6192 Před 3 lety +40

    Thanks for the explanation. I am one of those people trying to round up to an even number at the gas pump. Now I need to break the habit!

    • @dj3114
      @dj3114 Před 3 lety +2

      I'm going to stop topping off, but I'll probably round to the nearest nickel - the foam will go down far enough for that, handier for subtraction.

    • @johnroberthanna1623
      @johnroberthanna1623 Před 2 lety +2

      if there is damage, it's already done.

    • @DylanL69
      @DylanL69 Před 2 lety +1

      @@dj3114 I wouldn't

    • @dj3114
      @dj3114 Před 2 lety +1

      @@DylanL69 The worst case scenario is rounding from .01 to .05. At $3 per gallon, it equates to 13 one hundredths of single gallon. I think it would be fine. Per the video, I'll never "top off" again, but to the nickel, I'll chance it.

  • @ShanSidetrip
    @ShanSidetrip Před rokem +5

    Great illustration presented. Thank you so much sir for sharing it. I'm a new car owner and never thought that would be damaged to the car system brought when overfilling the gas tank. Keep it up and God bless

  • @Kay-dx8vm
    @Kay-dx8vm Před rokem +1

    The info CCN has been providing here is just WOW. Pure Gold

  • @stevenm3141
    @stevenm3141 Před rokem +98

    I'm glad to say that was perfectly clear and well demonstrated. I've been trying to do the same thing with many people, and I can't believe how many actual mechanics don't have a working knowledge of this!

    • @braronfire
      @braronfire Před rokem +1

      Very knowledgeable

    • @emilianozapata_714
      @emilianozapata_714 Před rokem +2

      I'm a. Mechanic, I have knowledge of this. & still do it. Haven't had any problems on any of my cars yet been doing it for well over 15 years. Of & on. Not all the time 😁🤷🏽‍♂️

    • @fivespeed42
      @fivespeed42 Před 5 měsíci

      ​@@emilianozapata_714because most cars have counter measures in place. There is a valve that will close the line if the fuel gets to the point to where it wants to head to the vapor canister. Although everything he said is true if fuel did go into the canister, it's most likely not happening

  • @toycoma98
    @toycoma98 Před 2 lety +8

    Dont forget to tighten your fuel cap until you hear 1 click or as long as it clicks or is tight. I used to work at a honda and ford dealership and i see alot of cel concerns, after scanning, turns out to be evap codes, then some of the mechanics would recommend a evap purge valve just to screw you. Tighten your gas cap.

  • @mrjoehimself
    @mrjoehimself Před 11 měsíci

    I've always thought the truest form of a Leader is a Teacher. Love your content!

  • @Navigator5
    @Navigator5 Před 8 měsíci +1

    Being a culprit, this information has come to me as a shock. Thank you for the advice.

  • @bodhi9464
    @bodhi9464 Před rokem +5

    Thank you for this - have been driving for 35 years and never knew !! Much appreciated 🚙🇦🇺

  • @johngregreid1
    @johngregreid1 Před 3 lety +19

    Yours is one of the best automotive CZcams channels. Very important & truthful help. God bless you.
    John
    Toronto, Canada

  • @Pantoja3136
    @Pantoja3136 Před rokem

    Last year, I traveled from Florida to Northern Virginia for the Christmas season. When I stopped at the gas stations along the way, I made sure my gas tank was completely topped off. Shortly after returning back to Florida, the check engine line came on while I was driving to work, but my 2019 VW Atlas ran normally. When the check engine light didn’t reset after ensuring my gas cap was on tight, I took my vehicle to my local VW dealership who quickly diagnosed my problem. My charcoal canister needed to be replaced. Luckily my car warranty paid for the replacement and I no longer top off my tank. Lesson learned!

  • @sudhirkudesia4930
    @sudhirkudesia4930 Před 3 měsíci

    Wow awesome. Your flow chart is so effective in conveying what you mean to say. One or two ounces more gas creates tons of headaches. But people have some kind of obsession to over filling the tank. Fill the tank until it can’t take any more then they feel satisfied and confident.

  • @freemanmt1
    @freemanmt1 Před 2 lety +17

    I'm convinced! Thank you so much for your hard work and explaining in this video. I will never top it off again.

  • @brianvogt8125
    @brianvogt8125 Před 2 lety +80

    Great explanation of the parts & cost! Thanks! It seems that I've been lucky - 21 years of high-filling my 1999 Australian Camry. It's a habit I'd practiced with my 1960s Hillman cars since 1972. When studying for my German drivers licence (Führerschein) test in 1999, an instruction said not to fill past the pump cut-out, but didn't explain why. I assumed it was because lots of people go on to create a messy splash-back. I never heard of an evap canister until Scotty Kilmer mentioned it this year.

    • @davidhahn216
      @davidhahn216 Před rokem

    • @annyer262
      @annyer262 Před rokem +2

      Do you live in South Australia? No annual inspections there! Just take out the canister, cut it open, dump the carbon out then glue it back together and everything should be good. Apart from the smell on a hot day!

  • @davec8894
    @davec8894 Před rokem

    If anyone has ever experienced "vapor Lock" on their fuel system, this perfectly explains why the car may sputter/cut off mid-acceleration, (coast to a safe area hopefully) open the gas cap, hear the "whoosh" and the car starts up and runs again. Not saying that this is always the case, however after seeing this video and being guilty of overfilling the tank myself.....I am now trusting the "click" at the pump. EVAP systems have been around in Japanese autos since the mid-'70s (fuel injection revolution) I believe? My 1977 280Z had the charcoal canister and purge lines/valves, had no clue and shops in my area didn't either back in the late '90s. Damn hate that I sold it because it may have had fuel management issues that realistically could have been my own fault!!!!!!!!! C'est la vie.
    Thank you Sir for your continued and unbiased perspective to educate us folks that are from DYI'ers to a novice, and presenting a very simple and effective "tool" called Knowledge and Experience. Much respect for your work........Have a Blessed Day! Dave C.

  • @light279
    @light279 Před 11 měsíci

    Thank you so much.When I purchased my Toyoto Corolla six and a half years ago the salesman told me to
    never top off my tank. I don'r recall or don't think that he ever gave a reason why. I initially followed his
    instruction but as the years went by, I started to top off. I hope that I have been lucky and not done any
    damage as you described. I will follow your instruction IMMEDIATELY

  • @harley13purenrg
    @harley13purenrg Před 3 lety +22

    Thank you for making a video on this. I've changed so many vapor charcoal canisters on cars because people have drenched their vapor charcoal canister in fuel by over fueling.

    • @natehailu86
      @natehailu86 Před 2 lety +7

      I’ve just joined those jackass ppl 😅 now my engine light comes on and all those kinds of problems 😡. Had I known this earlier, would have saved my hard earned $$$. 😏

    • @loreleibrewer3803
      @loreleibrewer3803 Před rokem +3

      Probably why my 97 Camry's vapor charcoal canister died before anything else on the car did (I bought her used, was 4th owner)

  • @stevenweiss2148
    @stevenweiss2148 Před 3 lety +69

    All gas stations should post a sign as a customer service.

    • @Railoffroader2
      @Railoffroader2 Před 3 lety

      @unarmed blackman
      Forget it brother, you completely missed the point of my sarcasm. It was for humor.
      Have a good day.

    • @leaellas8400
      @leaellas8400 Před 3 lety +3

      There is in fine print on the nozzle used to full the gas.

    • @erikhaw7313
      @erikhaw7313 Před 2 lety +3

      Costco has big signs, but I didn’t listen...😅

    • @ronb6182
      @ronb6182 Před 2 lety

      Yes and no. One day the Sam's Club gas was coming out real slow so the stop didn't work and gas overflowed. But I used the overflow gas driving to work on the interstate. I believe if you use the gasoline like on long trips you have nothing to worry about. But if the car sits in the driveway after pumping gas I believe some harm can be done to the car. Back when people didn't pump gasoline in their cars the gas station attendant did and a lot of them would over fill cars so less change was given. My parents used to yell at the attendant and tell them to stop pumping excessive gasoline. I guess so he could hear. It seemed like yelling to me.

    • @mrvang8077
      @mrvang8077 Před 2 lety

      Not all people are the brightest when it comes to filling up a gas tank on they're car. Only about 10 to 20% of the car owner populations are smart. You don't really need a full tank of gas driving in the city.

  • @bugeyesprite119
    @bugeyesprite119 Před 6 měsíci

    Great video with a clear, logical explanation. I've heard this for years, but never understood why you should not do it. Now I know. I typically have let it click stop then add a little more until it click stops again. No more.

  • @olyokie
    @olyokie Před rokem +2

    Ive topped off my tank for decades, will do so today.
    Never had a problem.

  • @harveyshearer6264
    @harveyshearer6264 Před rokem

    Very coincidental that I have watched this video now. Only last week I overfilled my Aston Martin DB9 and when I went to start it the dashboard lit up like a Christmas tree!
    I turned the car off for a few minutes and everything seems to be ok... for now. May have caused damage but don't know for sure. Won't be overfilling again. Thanks for the priceless info.

  • @Aussiemarco
    @Aussiemarco Před 2 lety +18

    I used to fill up to the top of the hose all the time petrol was cheap! But they were old Corollas, first was a 1979 model, the second was a 1989 one. I can’t afford to do it now 😂
    By the way, this information needs to be put out there. I’ve been driving for 42 years and never knew this. Great work 👍👏

    • @vueport99
      @vueport99 Před rokem +1

      Did the same to the same corolla not all issue whatsoever. Of course the cost is environmental if you happen to spill fuel on the ground if you over fill and get it on the paint too

    • @mitchhedberg4415
      @mitchhedberg4415 Před rokem +3

      Old cars dis not have this, they just let gas fumes pollute more.

  • @nitrofreakmanho
    @nitrofreakmanho Před 3 lety +16

    Thank you for the thorough explanation. I knew about over filling potentially ruining the evap canister, but never knew exactly how..until now. Thanks friend!

  • @actualmastermind
    @actualmastermind Před 11 měsíci +2

    He is right, I used to top off my tank on my 2020 Ram 1500, it stopped accepting gas, and if forced, it would float outside the tank/gas door. Luckily it went away by itself. I never top off since then. Tank stopping to accept gas is a really difficult issue to diagnose when the vehicle is taken to dealership.

  • @ovniusa15
    @ovniusa15 Před rokem +5

    If your house smells like gas just have a smoke and think about why

    • @InCaveEntertainment
      @InCaveEntertainment Před měsícem

      😂😂😂 - or maybe light up one of those big cigars with the really huge lighters 😂

  • @TigerPaw193
    @TigerPaw193 Před rokem +3

    Thanks! I always used to think this was a myth. It was very helpful to hear this from a real professional. I'm changing my ways right now.
    By the way, in our family it was a 1956 Chevy BelAir. I loved that car growing up.

  • @ricardoseales6501
    @ricardoseales6501 Před 3 lety +6

    Thank you for informing all car drivers because I didn't know I have a friend that does this in his vehicle and he doesn't understand why this is not good but he likes to fill it and over fill it actually he did it in my car a few times without me knowing since I've watched this video I will be more vigilant from now on

  • @martinharris5017
    @martinharris5017 Před rokem +6

    Thanks for the explanation. I had a close call with this issue and saved the car by some quick thinking and remedial action once i realised what was happening to my fuel system. Don't normally fill the car beyong three quarters of a tank, but just one time I made the mistake and I was lucky. Won't overfill the car again!

  • @teedeekay9720
    @teedeekay9720 Před rokem +1

    Brilliant stuff! Exclusive insights to whats happening behind the scenes when you are out enjoying your day overfilling the tank.

  • @renejacques8288
    @renejacques8288 Před 11 měsíci +1

    Best explanation I've heard, and I've been researching this thing for a while now. Had I heard this last year, I probably would have changed the whole system, I still might.

  • @villegas188
    @villegas188 Před 3 lety +32

    Thank you good to know i am one of those persons . Not going to do it again

  • @kahukukimo5581
    @kahukukimo5581 Před rokem +3

    Thank you for this helpful information. You have no idea how much help your channel has been. Its simply the best on the internet.

  • @marilynnebaldwin4432
    @marilynnebaldwin4432 Před 2 měsíci

    Because I regularly drive from Tennessee to NJ and back - I don’t want to stop anymore than I have to. But since seeing this video - I will never do this again. Thank you 🙏🏽

  • @novagiragos
    @novagiragos Před rokem

    Love your new logo. You're videos are very respectful and shines over all others. May God bless you and your business.

  • @steveclark5206
    @steveclark5206 Před 2 lety +31

    Great explanation. I was telling my daughters not to top off their tanks, and your video was the perfect one to show them why. Much better than I could have ever explained it to them. Thanks!

  • @landedeagle4596
    @landedeagle4596 Před 3 lety +3

    For years I never filled my tank I just didn't think it necessary now I know I was doing the right thing and why, thanks for sharing

  • @marybender5653
    @marybender5653 Před rokem +1

    AMD, you do an excellent job at giving these videos. I have watched many of them. Continue giving us many more!

  • @MartaStephens-tw8bo
    @MartaStephens-tw8bo Před 10 měsíci

    No one ever explained why you don’t top off your tank. You are a good man Ahmed. God will bless you because you are honest, care, and you are not a nut like so many mechanics out there. I watch you and Scotty Kilmer all the time since I found y’all about a month ago. I’ve made lists of things I want to fix on my 2000/4 Runner. One problem is when I go to buy the items I need, men will question why I need these items, and who said I needed these items. They question why this 66 yr old grandma is speaking car so well and intimidating them. They do not care to help me find what I need, and try to sell me other junk. So frustrating!!! Thanks for educating those of us that have beautiful polished nails with a little grease under them. God bless you…Marta

  • @ig8895
    @ig8895 Před 3 lety +26

    I just found this channel and it has real good info like Scotty Kilmer. Subscribed.

    • @DylanL69
      @DylanL69 Před 2 lety

      It's better then scottys channel

  • @itchyallover9
    @itchyallover9 Před 2 lety +4

    You are so right. Had to change mine on my 2004 Corolla. Always "topped it off" to the nearest exact dollar. It was a matter of time and I paid the price for a new canister approximately $ 300 for the part. I did the labor.

  • @BLUERAY1611
    @BLUERAY1611 Před rokem +1

    I never know this and I always used to overfill my gas tank. Thank you for enlightening me. I should have seen your vedios earlier.

  • @cdsersd2d
    @cdsersd2d Před 11 měsíci

    Subscribed!!!! This guy is 100% right. I overfilled my car twice and both times I drove straight home only to smell gas. I got the hint to not overfill. But I didn't understand why. Now I know! Thanks!!!!!!!!

  • @bedazzled64
    @bedazzled64 Před rokem +8

    Wow this was so helpful. Thank you for the illustration showing what happens. I never knew why not to, so I appreciate this!

  • @Johnwillbegone
    @Johnwillbegone Před 3 lety +7

    This is probably why the check engine light is always on when everything looks fine. My father and brother are mechanics and I never heard this. Great info. Thanks so much.

  • @MadDad303
    @MadDad303 Před 10 měsíci

    I bought my first Toyota last year & bought my wife her first Toyota last week. I really want to take care of these cars so they last as long as possible. Thanks for all your videos & free informative content. 👍
    ...and my the Lord bless you too!

  • @sayanchaudhury3728
    @sayanchaudhury3728 Před rokem

    Wish I saw this video earlier. I always top it off and didn’t know about this fact. Never again. Thanks for the video.

  • @kensweet6022
    @kensweet6022 Před rokem +6

    Well presented sir. If one is simply told "not to" or "must do" without explanation, then the student will learn very little, if anything at all. If you don't understand the "why", you are less likely to know the how!
    As a former driving instructor I always instilled the "why". It was especially satisfying when I presented this to pupils who had come to me from other tutors, for whatever reason, and they suddenly had the "light bulb" moment, usually followed with, "Ah ha! now I understand it" !!!

  • @Aurumane
    @Aurumane Před 3 lety +14

    Finally I have an explanation why my toyota highlander got the EVAP light on!!!!! Totally make sens and these car guys local mechanics they all tell a different story!!!! God I'm glad I know what is it now.

    • @jmabs5096
      @jmabs5096 Před 2 lety

      Sounds like your "mechanics" are all crooks or really lack luster in the IQ department

  • @macorrie21
    @macorrie21 Před 10 měsíci

    Thank you for this video. I have always done this mistake but luckily never had a problem but I won't do that anymore. Thank you again man. God bless you too.

  • @sunilmehta880
    @sunilmehta880 Před 3 měsíci

    I have to tell the gas attendant not to overfill the tank, they just keep overfilling to top off the tank. Thank you for the information.

  • @slik560
    @slik560 Před 3 lety +18

    I see people at the gas station clicking away, trying to fill it right to the filler cap. I try to let them know it's a bad idea but no one listens.

    • @alexsurh1472
      @alexsurh1472 Před 3 lety +1

      Just let them ruin their shit, they deserve it

    • @erikhaw7313
      @erikhaw7313 Před 2 lety +1

      Haha, hence the video.

    • @boobtubeakatv1296
      @boobtubeakatv1296 Před 2 lety

      Send them this link OR write it on a few pieces of paper and hand it to the ones that you may think will still learn a NEW trick 😉