Opening the gas tank on your Toyota RAV4 can be a hassle for many starters. The imperceptible location of the gas tank opening to the unsuspecting way the fuel door unlocks can make you feel frustrated.

But don’t worry, because I’m cracking the code on everything you need to know about successfully filling your gas tank. I will also teach you the common problems along with troubleshooting tips for swiftly resolving any potential problems. So if you’re ready, let’s start engineering!

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Open the Gas Tank on Your Toyota RAV4

Okay, so first things first, we need to start by locating the gas tank. This might not be so obvious at first glance as the seamless exterior paint can sometimes camouflage your gas tank door as well. But, if you pay attention to the driver’s side of the vehicle, you’ll notice a small circular or squarish indent on the fuel door. 

Unlocking the Gas Tank: The Two Ways You Can Do It

Found the tank door? Now you just need to open it. But, wait! The opening method of the tank varies from model to model. Let’s see what this means in more detail.

Models 1994-2018: Generation 1, 2, 3 & 4

If you are among the SUV’s old school club, i.e. your RAV4 is from 1994-2018, you will have to open the gas tank manually.

Start by looking for a fuel door release switch on the lower left side of the driver’s seat or on the floor. Pull it outwards and see the magic of open sesame as the gas tank door opens. This is the old-school convenience at its best!

Models 2019-2025: Generation 5

If you have one of the new shiny models of the latest RAV4 generation, i.e. 2019-2025, your gas cap switch is different.  

To open the fuel tank, you simply need to press the gas tank release button near the engine hood. It’s usually at the bottom of the dashboard just beneath the left of the steering wheel. The icon on this button resembles a pump (you know, just so you don’t accidentally press the wrong button and start playing the music instead). As soon as you press it, et voila, the gas tank will open with a fancy click sound. 

Gas Tank Door Not Opening

If the gas tank lid is not opening, I have a trick for you. Just follow the following instructions:

• Use a prop to keep the lever from closing (or ask someone to hold it for you)
• Next, go over to the gas door and use your fingers to push against the axis of the hinge of the door.
• The lid will start to slide outwards, now quickly grab it and open the door.

Makes for a quick fix to the problem doesn’t it? Comment down in the section what you think of it.

Opening the Gas Cap

Opened the fuel door? Good. Now, it’s time to fill your RAV4’s tank with some fuel! Follow the instructions I’m giving so you can get done with this in no time.

• Take off the gas tank lid AKA gas cap. Do this by twisting the cap counterclockwise until it comes off. Also, you can place it in its holder.
• For older models, simply twist the gas cap to lock the cap. 

Closing the Gas Cap

Once you’ve fueled it up, it’s time to place the lid back on. Closing the gas cap is the same for all RAV4 models

• For the older models, twist the gas caps clockwise until you hear a satisfying click. Now, gently push the door. 
• If you are rocking a newer model, the door will close. In case it doesn’t, a gentle nudge will do.

Note: If you don’t close the cap properly, you might see the check engine light on your dashboard. This is arguably the most ambiguous of the dashboard lights so if you want to avoid this notorious villain, make sure your gas cap is tight.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

I can imagine some of you might be experiencing problems while opening or worse, closing your gas fuel tank. Tell me shine some light on these.

Fuel Cap Won’t Open

If the fuel tank of your RAV4 is not opening or closing it might be dirty. In this case, follow the following steps for a quick solution.

• Take a clean cloth and wipe the latch to remove the dirt or grime.
• If the cap is gunked up, a little silicone-based lubricant can help with this.
• If the latch is worn out, you need to get it replaced immediately.

Fuel Cap Won’t Close

If the door won’t close it can be a panicking situation. But you can follow these solutions. 

• If your fuel door won’t close properly, start by checking the latch for any accumulation for debris. 
• If your latch doesn’t have any dirt or grime and just doesn’t work, take it to a mechanic. The latch might need to be replaced or realigned.

1. If you suspect a leak, don’t drive until you discern the reason.

Gas Cap Replacement

Gas cap replacement is a common solution to a lot of problems tied to the part. The price of buying a gas tank cap is $9-$26 according to the old AutoZone. And, of course, there is no mechanical service fee as you know how to place it. 

Safety at the Gas Station

It is important to be safe when refueling your RAV4. Here are a few crucial safety tips to keep in mind:

• Turn off the engine: Always turn off your RAV4 before refueling.
• No smoking: Do not smoke or use lighters near gasoline pumps.
• Use containers correctly: Only use containers approved for carrying additional fuel.
• Maintain focus: While you refuel the gas tank make sure you don’t get distracted.
• Emergency procedure: Know where the emergency stop button is located at the station.

By following these safety guidelines, you can ensure a seamless fuel-filling experience at the gas station every time.

FAQs

Sources

If you want to learn more about opening the gas tank, check out the following link:

Wikipedia

Conclusion

Opening the gas tank is an important skill so you know how to fuel your RAV4 whenever needed. Whether you’re unlocking or locking your gas tank, you can ensure hassle-free fueling at the gas station with your guide. If you run into any issues that have not been covered in the article, comment below to let me know so I can provide you with a solution.