Help! My car says the tank is empty but won’t take more g...


Help! My car says the tank is empty but won’t take more gas. Mechanic's Assistant: Have you noticed an increase in fuel consumption? And how does the vehicle start—same as usual? Yes, I filled my tank up two hours a...

Help! My car says the tank is empty but won’t take more gas. Mechanic's Assistant: Have you noticed an increase in fuel consumption? And how does the vehicle start—same as usual? Yes, I filled my tank up two hours ago. However, when I filled it up, it won’t only take $6 worth of gas, which is very little. The vehicle starts like normal. Mechanic's Assistant: What is the make/model/year of your car? Toyota [Prius](/topics-prius/) 2007 Mechanic's Assistant: Are you fixing your Prius yourself? What have you tried so far? Yes I am fixing it myself. I have not tried anything yet Mechanic's Assistant: Anything else you want the Mechanic to know before I connect you? We are on a road trip and had to pull over at a gas station. Because it is Sunday, no auto repair shops are open around here

Automotive Expert
Hello and welcome! My name isCustomerand I can assist you with your question. I am a former master tech and I have worked in this field for 20 years. I specialize this type of problem you are experiencing so I am confident I can assist with this issue. I am sorry you are having this issue and I understand this can be frustrating so I will try my best to help. While we are working on this issue together, please allow up to 30 minutes (or more) between replies as I might be online helping other customers or offline spending time with family. Please understand I can only see what is on this page and what you have already shared with me. I don’t know the all of the vehicle history and I don’t know your mechanical ability, but I will try my best to help. I am going to start by asking some basic questions to get up to caught up to where you are at with this situation so I can assist you in a timely manner. I appreciate your time and patience while we are working together on this issue. My goal is to provide you with a pleasant experience and ensure all of your questions are answered. Please reply back at anytime so I can fully answer or address any questions or concerns you may have. _Please download or save any documents or images I may send you as they will automatically expire after 7 days._ Can I start by getting your first name? Thank you

Naomi
Automotive Expert
Thank you Naomi. Is the check [engine](/topics-engine-toyota/) light on? Are there any codes in the computer?

The check engine light is not on and the only thing the computer says is "add fuel"
Automotive Expert
ok thank you. Based on my experience, this condition is caused by a restricted fuel filler neck or a faulty splash back valve at the fuel tank. Another possible cause would be the charcoal canister or the refueling valve in the top of the tank. You can remove the vapor hoses going to the charcoal canister and try refueling once again and see if that does the trick. If so, that would indicate a restricted/clogged charcoal canister. It has been a pleasure working with you so far. Keep in mind this is a “starting point”. We can always continue as needed at a later date or at any time. Feel free to run some tests and reply back for further assistance as needed. Glad I can help. Please let me know if you have any further questions. Thanks and have a great day!

Where is the charcoal canister? Where are the vapor hoses? Where can I get a new charcoal canister?
Automotive Expert
The charcoal canister is located back by the gas tank underneath the vehicle. The vapor hoses connect to the canister. You can get a new one at your local Toyota Dealership.

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