Is there any harm in topping off your vehicle?

Question

When I fill my vehicle with gasoline I always top it off about two gallons over after it shuts itself off, I use regular unleaded gas, and harm to the vehicle...?

Answer 1

I also tend to top off my tank but not quite to the tune of two gallons.

Answer 2

It's typically to prevent spills onto the ground when refueling your car which could be potentially hazardous.

Most gas pumps have a vapor return line that allows the displaced vapor to go back down the hose and prevent it from escaping into the air. If you overfill the car you might be pumping the gasoline you just bought back into their tanks again!

That's two reasons why it isn't a great idea...

Answer 3

There is a possibility of getting fuel in the charcoal canister (not really a problem), but really the "Do not top off" signs are there to aviod spills from overfilling and to keep you coming back to the service station more often.

Answer 4

that won't really harm the vehicle but it could damage the float sensor. plus by overfilling it can result in spills or leaks from the fuel going past it's recommended level, as the auto manufacturers put that level in there for a reason.

Answer 5

as long as you dont overfill the tube your fine. All your gonna do is add more weight to your car. The more weight the more gas youll burn anyway. You really should just let it stop and pump to the nearest dollar if you want. It doesn't do you any good really just wastes a few bucks every month

Answer 6

i'd have to say ya... not sure on the reason.. but i do know the signs say dont smoke by the gas pump.. so we dont.. turn your engine off. so most the the time people do... and dnt top off your tank... so id assume not to..

Answer 7

bad idea. in newer vehicle when the pump shuts off on its own, you should not put more fuel in or you risk damaging emission components