For sedans, the fuel tank is typically located in the middle-rear section of the vehicle. However, depending on the car model, some fuel tanks are positioned on the right side while others are on the left. This applies to most vehicles, though there are exceptions. For example, the Honda Fit hatchback has its fuel tank in the central part of the car, basically beneath the driver's seat, to maximize rear passenger space. Considerations for body weight balance. Automakers like German and Japanese manufacturers place high importance on technology, particularly concerning weight distribution. The front of the vehicle already carries the heavy engine and steering system, so the fuel tank is usually placed under the rear seats. Combined with the driver's weight, this creates a diagonal balance between the fuel tank and the driver to maintain overall vehicle weight equilibrium. Driving direction also plays a role. The placement of the fuel tank is also designed for convenience during refueling. In some European countries where driving is on the right side of the road, the fuel tank is positioned on the right. Some may wonder why Korean cars, which also drive on the right, have fuel tank openings on the left. One explanation is that Korean manufacturers copied Japanese car designs without adapting the fuel tank position to their own driving habits. Safety considerations for refueling. The location of the fuel tank opening must account not only for convenience but also for safety. In the past, when cars were refueled using portable gas cans, having the fuel tank opening on the same side as the driver could lead to collisions during refueling. Therefore, positioning the fuel tank opening diagonally opposite the driver—toward the roadside—is safer. If you can't remember which side your fuel tank is on, check the fuel gauge on your dashboard; the small arrow indicates the location. For vehicles with a single exhaust pipe, the exhaust pipe is usually on the opposite side of the fuel tank.
