What to Do When There Is Fuel Overflow at the Fuel Tank Opening?
3 Answers
When refueling, reduce the flow rate as the tank nears full capacity. Wait for the bubbles to dissipate slowly before continuing to add fuel. The tank will not spray fuel if it is not filled to the brim. If fuel overflows onto the painted surface, it can corrode the vehicle's paint, leading to peeling. Fuel vapor will also be generated inside the fuel tank.
I've encountered fuel spillage from the fuel tank opening several times, and it's actually quite common. When you notice it, act immediately without delay. Find a safe place to park, turn off the engine to avoid any sparks that could cause danger. First, check if the fuel cap isn't tightened properly—sometimes in a hurry, we might drive off without securing it well. If there's fuel leakage, clean it up with a cloth or paper towel to prevent oil stains from polluting the road, which could cause someone to slip or harm the environment. There are many reasons for fuel spillage, such as aging seals on the fuel cap, overfilling during refueling, or even small cracks in the tank itself. I suggest first trying to tighten the cap and observing for a few minutes; if it still leaks, it indicates a more serious issue like a faulty fuel pump or a damaged tank. In such cases, don't continue driving—call a tow truck immediately and head to a professional repair shop. Safety first—don't risk big problems to save small money. During regular maintenance, remind the technician to check the fuel tank and cap to avoid repeating the same mistake next time.
Fuel overflow is no joke, and I always believe it should be taken seriously. Once you notice fuel leaking from the tank, immediately stop the vehicle and turn off the engine to prevent fire hazards caused by engine heat. Use a wet cloth or oil-absorbent paper towels to clean the spill, ensuring no residue is left on the ground to avoid slips or water contamination. Possible causes include a loose fuel cap, cracked sealing ring, overfilling during refueling, or corrosion creating small holes in the tank. Personally, I check if the cap is loose and try reinstalling it; if that doesn’t work, internal fuel system issues like a faulty fuel pump seal or tank damage may require professional inspection with specialized tools. For prevention, avoid letting the fuel nozzle auto-fill to the point of overflow—stop at around 80% capacity. During routine car washes, inspect the fuel cap and keep it dry. Ignoring this issue wastes fuel and poses serious risks.
