Fuel tank or Fuel pump problem?

[TwoToneT4R]

So I've always thought that my fuel tank never held all 18 gallons for some reason, but today I filled up on E (first time I've ever got it that low) and the pump stopped shy of 10 gallons and I babied another gallon or so into it. What could be the problem?

 

[thecole1098]

This is very common with these. Typically when the light comes on you will have about 5 more gallons before you actually run out of fuel. Also, make sure you don't make a habit of "topping off" the fuel when you fill up. When the pump stops, that's it. Topping off can cause harm to your charcoal canister.

 

[TwoToneT4R]

This is very common with these. Typically when the light comes on you will have about 5 more gallons before you actually run out of fuel. Also, make sure you don't make a habit of "topping off" the fuel when you fill up. When the pump stops, that's it. Topping off can cause harm to your charcoal canister.

Can I do something to fix it? The thought alone of driving on E makes me tremble:laugh:

 

[Nate_GB]

So I've always thought that my fuel tank never held all 18 gallons for some reason, but today I filled up on E (first time I've ever got it that low) and the pump stopped shy of 10 gallons and I babied another gallon or so into it. What could be the problem?

Sounds like a gauge issue or an issue with the float in the fuel tank that tells the gauge how much fuel is left. You're probably going to need to drop the tank and open it up to check the issue.

Are you sure the tank is actually full when you put in the 10 gallons? Some gas station pumps fill too fast and cause the back pressure in the tank to make the pump think the tank is full when it actually isn't. I'd probably check that first.

 

[TwoToneT4R]

Sounds like a gauge issue or an issue with the float in the fuel tank that tells the gauge how much fuel is left. You're probably going to need to drop the tank and open it up to check the issue.

Are you sure the tank is actually full when you put in the 10 gallons? Some gas station pumps fill too fast and cause the back pressure in the tank to make the pump think the tank is full when it actually isn't. I'd probably check that first.

Thanks man!! You got any more shots of your Runner? That bumper is cleann

 

[phattyduck]

Can I do something to fix it? The thought alone of driving on E makes me tremble:laugh:

To really know when the tank is empty, you might have to just drive until you run out of fuel. Carry a couple gallons in a gas can to get to the station after it happens...

There is also a fuel gauge calibration procedure. Not sure if that will help your truck, but it might?

-Charlie

 

[thecole1098]

This should work for you since you have a '00. Below is the calibration procedure for the fuel gauge:

When replacing the meter circuit plate (or) inclination sensor, you must perform the
following calibration procedure to ensure proper operation of the Fuel Gauge. This
procedure supplements the diagnostic steps for the combination meter. Reference the
Repair Manual pages BE–38 through BE–54.
�� 1999 and 2000 model year 4Runner.
1. After replacing the meter circuit plate or inclination sensor, move the vehicle to a level
location. (A surface with an inclination no greater than ±0.5° is the target flatness.)
2. With the ignition switch in the “OFF” position, press and hold the trip reset button.
3. Continue pressing the trip reset button while turning the ignition switch to the “ON”
position.
4. Within 5 seconds of turning the ignition switch “ON”, release the trip switch, press the
trip switch 3 times, and on the third press hold the switch for 5 seconds. The buzzer
will sound for 1 second at 800 HZ.
5. After the buzzer stops, release the trip switch.
6. Press the trip switch one more time and hold for 5 seconds. Once more, the buzzer
will sound for 1 second at 800 HZ.
7. The calibration process is completed.
NOTE:
If in the operation of step 6, the buzzer sounds higher than that of step 5, turn the
ignition switch to “OFF” position and repeat the setting procedure from step 2.