Thank you for posting this video. I have a 2005 Toyota 4Runner SR5 have an exact same issue. It is 18 years old now ,the dealership wants to charge me $1500 to repair this issue.
Hello. You’re welcome. If you tackle the project - please come back and let me know how it went. Thank you for leaving a comment. Please click on the words “Rick’s Tid-Bits” underneath the video to go to my UA-cam channel. I think you’ll find some helpful and unique tips in my How to Make Life Easier or Better section, and my Trains section. ua-cam.com/channels/c-IuUFzC2Tyv06KzJyBESg.html Rick
Brilliant presentation. Like you, I appreciate (and need) the details and answers to the “why” questions. My son in law is experiencing identical issues on his 2006 4Runner. I’m hoping the back seat access hole is larger than on the 2005 but dropping the tank isn’t a show stopper for us. Again, thanks!
Hi Piper. Thank you for the kind words. You’re welcome. Let me know how it goes. Please click on the words “Rick’s Tid-Bits” underneath the video to go to my UA-cam channel. I think you’ll find some helpful and unique tips in my How to Make Life Easier or Better section. ua-cam.com/channels/c-IuUFzC2Tyv06KzJyBESg.html Rick
Very informative video. Very thorough. It looks like even though he didn’t know what he was doing, he figured it out and informed himself to be able to do a good job and provide information for everyone that may watch this video. I have the same issue with my fuel gauge and I’m planning to drop the tank to replace the part. Great job.
Another problem that can cause this symptom - Check the ground resistance of the brown wire of the fuel guage float before going through the trouble of removing the tank. You might have a bad ground connection where ever it goes. You could splice a wire to the ground and ground it yourself. When I started your video and saw your sheet tracking all the value, I could see you are a good trouble shooter.
I just did this job but I replaced the fuel pump. The gas tank can not just be dropped from below because of the short wires connecting the harness to the pump, so being how you have to take off the body cover to disconnect the wires I cut out a 8'' by 8'' peace so I could remove the pump from above- no need to drop the tank. Doing this made the job much easier it also allowed me to start the car and watch for leaks. The peace of body I cut out can be easily sealed up with silicone.
Hi John. Thank you for leaving a comment. Please click on the words “Rick’s Tid-Bits” underneath the video to go to my UA-cam channel. I think you’ll find some helpful and unique tips in my How to Make Life Easier or Better section. ua-cam.com/channels/c-IuUFzC2Tyv06KzJyBESg.html Rick
Thanks for the vid. Your video was more helpful than any other I'd found. I've got a factory service manual, AllData online access and a Chiltons but I still find it's VERY helpful to be able to see a vid of exactly what I'm getting myself into before I get started. Best use of UA-cam IMHO. Just finished replacing the entire assembly on my 2007 4Runner Limited V8 (Toyota Part No. 77020-35102) which looks to be the same one as on yours. Buying from a dealership that sells online it was right about $400 shipped. All in all the whole job took about 5 hours for me including a mandatory lunch break (union rules or I go on strike). I'm sure it would have taken longer had I not watched your vid first. My tank was 3/4 full when the pump died so after unclamping the filler neck I siphoned it empty before lowering the tank. I also didn't even bother pulling up the carpet to get to that almost useless access panel. I was able to lower the tank enough to get up in there and disconnect the wiring from underneath. Sure would have been nice if Toyota would have made that access hole large enough to pull the whole assembly out and in. They managed to do it for the Lexus GX470 which is almost the same vehicle as mine in most other aspects, though IIRC the Lexus you might have to actually pull the seats to get to it.
Nice video. Greetings from Democratic Republic of CONGO, in Africa. My gauge was reading more than what i have in tank. I filled up the tank, the gauge went to full. I drove more than 300kilometers, gauge was still indicating FULL... this video really helped me
2008 4runner with 197000 miles. Very similar issues. Started around 194000 now on E all the time. Guess I need to take to Toyota for repair now. Not messing with it myself since its my only vehicle. Thanks for the in-depth video!
This was super helpful when I replaced the sending unit. Only thing I did differently was to actually remove that annoying vent clip from where it connects by the spare tire and fish it out rather than trying to disconnect it from on top of the fuel tank. Thank you for this!
I am going to be doing this soon. I haven't tested my sending unit yet, but it does not read accurately once it is around 1/4 tank remaining. Aside from getting a new fuel sending unit, what other parts did you need to order or do you recommend to order before doing this job? Assuming you are reusing the fuel pump. E.g., gaskets, etc.
Hi vettepwr. I don't think I needed any special tools. You will need a jack to lower it and then raise it. It's a bit heavy and awkward. I thought about replacing the fuel pump and o-rings while I was doing it. In the "old days" on older cars I would have done that because they were prone to failure also. I did not replace them on this one. I hadn't heard of a fuel pump failure on a new-ish vehicle in ages. Plus, to get the pump (and o-rings?) from Toyota you had to buy the entire fuel cage assembly, which was ridiculously expensive. I'm still driving this and everything still works well. In fact, the vehicle works so well instead of buying something new, I just had it painted last summer! She just keeps-on marching-on! 208,000 miles now.
@@rickstid-bits Thank you for the quick response, I bought my 08 V6 with 206k miles 3years ago just to see what these trucks were all about. I'm at 298k miles now. I have been all over the US several times already.
Thank you for posting this. I have a very similar issue on my 2004 4Runner. I am certain it is the sending unit. Initially I thought I could do this myself through the hole under the seat but now I see that there is no getting around dropping the tank which changes the Level of Effort in this repair completely.
Rick, I think I must be your long lost twin brother. I am exactly like you. I maintain all my vehicles. And I too drive a TD Dodge Ram. Even built a few cars/ truck/ buggies from the ground up. (Long Story) My wifes 06 4 Runner (250K miles) is having the same fuel gauge issue. so I did a little search to see how much work it was going to be, and it brought me here. I have a 4 post car lift and transmission jack in my shop and with your explanation of how to get the hoses disconnected it's going to be a piece of cake for me. Thanks so much for posting up the details and video of how it's done. Great job with the Ohming out the sending unit. The kind of stuff I do too!
@@rickstid-bits Will do Rick. It's going to be a week or 2 before I can get time to get it in the shop. Rebuiding the front suspensioin on my Dodge at the moment.
Well it's done! As of about 30 minutes ago. Replaced the sending unit no problem. Getting the hoses disconnected was a challenge, but they eventually let go. Thanks for the Video Rick. Sure made it a lot easier. I didn't have a wrench for the big fuel pump ring, so I wrapped a thin cheap walmart strap around it then looped it around a stick to make a strap wrench and it came off with nothing breaking. Took me about 3 hours with a dinner break in the middle.
Rick, thank you so much for this video. I have a slightly different purpose than yours - I'm looking to install a kill switch in the 4runner to deter theft, to cut power to fuel pump. I have two questions for you. The first is, which wire on the fuel pump should I be looking to intercept with my switch, and where can I find it? Can I find it further "upstream" so that I don't have to tap in near the fuel pump? And the second question is, I am going to use a 3 way switch to route power to a car horn I purchased online, if the car is started with the switch in the off position. Should I add a fuse on my tapped fuel pump power line? Is there a possibility for excess current to somehow go through my switch into the fuel pump and fry it? Thanks again in advance and God bless!
You’re welcome. I'm sorry I couldn't help. Please click on the words “Rick’s Tid-Bits” underneath the video to go to my UA-cam channel. I think you’ll find some helpful and unique tips in my How to Make Life Easier or Better section. ua-cam.com/channels/c-IuUFzC2Tyv06KzJyBESg.html Rick
Great video I mean you did take a while to get to the point but I think it was worth watching your video talking about everything you did now I don't have to do it myself so I appreciate it I think that's would fix the problem on my 06 4Runner and you just save me months and months of doing all the testing thank you
Am stumped, have removed the fuel assy on my 05 runner, but am finding it impossible to remove the fuel pump from the housing. The fsm says to pull 2 claw tabs and pull out the pump. Tried it and pump isnt budging.pls help. I have a persistent p0230 MIL,
I had an intermittent problem with my fuel sender, so I decided to change it and the pump as well while I was in there (original 18-year-old pump). I noticed you said that your distance to empty info display didn't seem to ever fully correct itself. On my truck I think it may have, as when I first turned the vehicle on, the D to E guage said 69 miles, whereas it was stuck on 0 miles before. It's worth mentioning I disconnected my battery before starting any of my work.
Hi Mac, Thank you for adding your experience. Mine did correct itself. I believe it took a couple full tanks to sort itself out. And that makes sense because the computer needed a couple times of knowing how many gallons the vehicle took, and how many miles it traveled, to become accurate again.
Nicee. How did you remove my fuel pump, am finding it hard to do. Fsm says to pull the claw tabs and pull the pump downwards, tried it no dice.05 runner
@@skywalker_0427 I'm not sure what you mean. You pull the access panel under the seat, undo the electrical connectors, fuel, and evap lines, then drop the tank. Unscrew the plastic lock ring and it pulls out from the top.
@@macgroober1396 i made a U cut and expanded the slot...didnt have to drop the tank. Have retrieved the fuel pump assy.changed the filter, but unable to remove the actual fuel pump from the assy
@@skywalker_0427 I can't help you in that case, I replaced my pump and sender as a unit, considering they were both about 20 years old when I changed them, i.e. "while you're in there..."
Nicely done video. My '05 4runner started giving erratic readings too recently. Around the same time I started using Lucas Oil-injector cleaner. Don't know if that's what caused it or if it's just the age. Great idea on using the trip odo. to keep track. Just wanted to say thanks again for the splendid detailed video.
I've got a 2008. So the fuel filter is a little tiny piece inside the fuel pump assembly? Never swap it out unless the pump fails? Also, I like your methodology and level of detail. Knowing the process is always beneficial before just going in there and assuming something.
Hi JLA, Thank you for the kind words. My level of detail drives most internet people crazy. I'm not sure I said that about the fuel filter. I'm not positive, but I think the fuel filter is along the frame rail under the vehicle.
Hi, currently having same issue 05 4runner limited V8 - it did start with just the gas gauge. I took it to the dealer and they said I needed a new Gas Cap. After a $300 gas cap...the issue returned to the gauge but then all of the gauges on the dash were doing the same thing. jumpy needles. no speedometer. and odometer is also out. there's a source of connection because all the lights work. but all gauges are not working. I just use the digital gas gauge and haven't noticed any issues with the amount I have in the tank or when I'm filling up. just the gauges on the dash do not work. would this be the same issue as yours? I have another mechanic who's stumped by this issue.
Hi Melinda. I did not have that issue. My only problem was the fuel gauge. Since it's all the gauges on yours it has to be something common to all the gauges. I would look for a common Ground wire. And/or, make sure the power to the gauges is dead steady. Please click on the words “Rick’s Tid-Bits” underneath the video to go to my UA-cam channel. I think you’ll find some helpful and unique tips in my How to Make Life Easier or Better section. ua-cam.com/channels/c-IuUFzC2Tyv06KzJyBESg.html Rick
Thank you, my 2005 4Runner which has 180k miles just started having this same issue. Guess I'll have to take it to a mechanic. This is a DIY I wont be able to do myself.
Hello, That's good additional information to know. Thank you. Please click on the words “Rick’s Tid-Bits” underneath the video to go to my UA-cam channel. I think you’ll find some helpful and unique tips in my How to Make Life Easier or Better section. ua-cam.com/channels/c-IuUFzC2Tyv06KzJyBESg.html Rick
The range computer goes off previous data i think. Would have to clear the ECU. Also some losses in mpg over the years are expected as compression goes out, timing chain gets slop, etc etc. With the erratic measurements of sender. Put it on a lever. Just loosely screw down the end of a meterstick and put it close to the screw, then move the other end of the meter stick. You could easily get down to whatever resolution of change it wants. Not sure what the spec sheet says for range.
Hi Marc. Thanks for leaving a comment. You are correct. The range calculation was based off previous data. That corrected itself after a couple tankfulls. Rick
@@rickstid-bits thanks for the reply on a 4 year old video. Mine just went sporadic and this video covers it well. I guessed this was the issue. It's nice to be able to see how grimy that thing gets without pulling it.
@@rickstid-bits 251k miles. 2007. I probably will just let it run for another 5 years lol. I always have 3 gallons in tge back. Once i finish my roofrack I'll have a whole Jerry can. So i don't care if it runs out. I definitely was questioning if the tank was actually 20 gallons or if that was a hallucination. I was only filling 15 on dead empty
Thanks for the video helped me figured out what is wrong with my truck. My sensor went 1/4 of a tank to half a tank all of a sudden this morning. Guess I have another thing to fix lol thank you again.
Hi I’m having similar problems , except I’m running out of gas right below 1/4 tank, it’s happened twice now around the same level but my range finder was reading 44 miles left the first time and then 67 miles left the second time but the needle was around the same level. If I fill the tank with a lot of gas the range find will read higher, if I were to throw let’s say $15 In the tank the needle might go up but not the range finder. I’ve been treating my 1/4 take line as my E line but I would like to fix this. Do you think my fuel sending unit is the problem ?
My mileage remaining returned to normal after driving a couple tankfulls. The computer needed those miles driven vs. how many gallons it used to calculate the new numbers.
Hi Joe, You’re welcome. I hope it helped. Thank you for leaving a comment. Please click on the words “Rick’s Tid-Bits” underneath the video to go to my UA-cam channel. I think you’ll find some helpful and unique tips in my How to Make Life Easier or Better section. ua-cam.com/channels/c-IuUFzC2Tyv06KzJyBESg.html Rick
Before changing your sending unit try Marvel Mystery oil at a rate of 4oz per 10 gallon of gas. Two tank fulls later my guage is back to normal. Update: a year later the issue reappeared. May be forced to replace the $100 sending unit??
Great video!!!! I have a '13 LX570 that's doing the exact same thing yours was doing. At 0 miles to empty and when the guage is at E, we can only put in aprox 15 gallons. That should mean we have at 9-10 gallons left in the tank at Empty. I'm definitely going to try the fuel sender. I'm not as meticulous as you, but thankfully you are. This video was a huge help!!!
Sir I appreciated your mechanical experience knowing that I was able to 1st see the source of the information was coming from a credible source who humbly gave credit as being blessed. Thank you for the help. God Bless
First off, great job with the video. Im having an issue with an 07 with the "Range" display. The fuel gauge itself works perfect. I wouldn't be concerned with it if it were my vehicle, simply resetting the trip would be the same. It's my girlfriends car and she relies on it. Do you have any suggestions?
excellent video, thank you for posting! Looks like my truck has the same issue. Any suggestions on what to else check before going ahead and ordering the new part?
You're welcome. The only thing I can say is go threw a few tankfuls of gas while watching your gauge and mileage. If your's is acting the same as mine did, that would be my first choice of parts to replace.
Rick S thanks, it’s been an ongoing issue for a few weeks now. At first the fuel gauge would go to from full to 3/4 after fill-up then slowly come back up. Then it would show off by about 1/8 tank, and now it’s off a 1/4 tank and wont go above 3/4 when filling up at the station. I always reset the trip odometer so I know how many miles since last fill up and it’s super low before showing empty (150-200 miles). The miles to empty calculated on the dash above HVAC has been fluctuating along with the gauge too. Looks like everything points to the fuel level sender but I figured I’d ask before going through the hassle of dropping the tank.
@@beltwaybandits406 Sounds like what I was seeing on mine. Just remember it could also be the gauge itself or the computer. However, I was pretty confident mine was the sending unit, so that's what I changed first. Please come back and update me on how it goes.
@@oddsparrow3532 the problem went away after several months. It would only happen in the summer time when it was very hot & humid outside. I purchased the truck from someone who barely drove it so my guess is that the fuel level sender/arm was sticking a little from sitting all the time. Driving and refueling it regularly with top tier gas seemed to do the trick.
Does anyone know how much something like this would cost if you took it somewhere to fix it cuz I could not do any of what he has done. I'm having the same problem with my '05 4Runner. It started about 3 months ago and it's very erratic as well.
Just so you or anyone else reading this, Do not go all the way down to the E every single time, You’ll damage that fuel sending unit lever and can burn out the fuel Ump. I worked on Toyota’s chevys gmc ford dodge hummer Volvo Subaru Mitsubishi and ties the matter what brand vehicle you own. Chevy gmc have been known to go bad anywhere between 40-90,000 miles ..... burned the fuel pump.....
I am actually in the process of doing this. How did you end up getting that fuel tank vent hose off that sits on top of the tank? I have been stuck for a few hours trying to get it off. I even tried to remove it from the canister side and still no luck. Did you lower the tank at all ti get to it or did you remove it while the tank was still mounted? Any suggestions appreciated.
@@rickstid-bits No problem. I got it off. What method did you use to remove the fuel from the tank? I think I have about 5 gallons in there and I would like to remove it if possible to make life easier.
@@rickstid-bits I ended up powering the fuel pump itself using a 12V motorcycle battery and pump the fuel directly into a gas can. I was reinstalling the retainer ring using a flat blade screwdriver and I ended up breaking it. The manual calls to put the ring in the 4 and 5 o'clock position after 2 rotations but mine split when I tried to move it pass the 3 o'clock position. I ordered a new one including the gasket. Any tips you can remember for installing those?
Hey Rick - extremely helpful video. I replaced the fuel sending unit in my '06 4Runner last weekend, and I couldn't have done it without your help. After replacing the sending unit and filling up the tank, I had the same issue you mention: the fuel range reads around 350 instead of around 415, like it did before I replaced the unit. I'm wondering...did the issue ever resolve with your 4Runner? Did you end up having to do anything else in order to fix it?
Hi Ron. Yes. It also fixed the range display. It initially read low like it showed at the end of my video. It was because the computer had been miscalculating the range for a long time - and that's the baseline info it had to go by. After a full tank full or 2 - the range went back up to where it used to be. Reset you MPG readings, fill it up, and give it a few tank fulls. As long as your fuel gauge now reads nice and steady from full to low - it will eventually read correctly.
how hard was it to drop the tank? having this issue on my 03 v8 runner and ordering the whole pump and sending unit. @ 220k miles so i figured might as well
Great video, thanks for taking the time to produce it. I have a 2005 V6 Tacoma and suspect the float sending unit is my issue as well. Just wondering if you have had any issues with your SRS Airbag sensors on your 4-Runner as I've had on my Tacoma where the Airbag light remains illuminated on the dash. I'm in my 60s as well and fix things too, just out of necessity, Unfortunately, I don't have your level of troubleshooting skill. Thanks for sharing your knowledge!
Hi Cayman, Thank you for the kind words. I'm glad my video is helping others. I haven't had any airbag issues on mine. The only other real issue I've had was the A/C Evaporator.
Thank you for this video! I’ve been having this exact problem for yrs on my 2003 4runner. You’ve solved my problem. Will definitely tackle this project!
@@rickstid-bits hey Rick , i finally replaced the float unit, you weren't kidding about the rear upper hose. thing was a PITA ! the driveshaft being in the way made it hard. but i got everything put back together and i think it solved the problem, the gauge is reading good so far.
I just found your video, I changed out my fuel pump yesterday and the car turned on so that was the main problem, I had to empty my full tank to take it out, now that it's back in I put about 5 gallons of gas back in just to get the car to turn on, now my fuel gauge is messed up (saying the tank is full) when I know it's not, and when I tried to put gas in my car, the gas spewed back up and the car won't take any gas in. I've done lots of research but have not seen anyone with the same problem, any suggestions? I would greatly appreciate
Hi Amanda. * On the filling the gas tank: The only way I can see that happening is if the hose from the filler neck to the tank got bent and is pinched closed. I don't remember what type of hose it is - so I would be surprised if it is lightweight enough to do that: But that's the only thing that I could see causing that. * On the gauge: I'm thinking of a couple things. 1. Something has the float jammed in the up position. Possibly a wire got slid over and in the way, the arm got bent, etc. 2. During removing or reinstalling the assembly: The electrical wiper arm of the float got bent slightly and is not making contact with that pad anymore. 3. That area of the float has finally failed. Let me know what you find.
Im having an issue with my evap system on my 2005 4runned. I noticed that this vehicle didn’t have a fuel tank pressure sensor on the top of the sending unit either. Do you know where it’s located? Every Manuel I reference says it should be right on top of the white cap fuel sending unit.
Hi Justin, I just read through my Chilton's Manual. It doesn't mention a fuel pressure sensor. There is a Fuel Pressure Pulsation Damper, but there aren't any electrical connections on it. The manual does say the PCM controls fuel flow based on demand. I agree with you that something has to acknowledge that there is pressure. Could it be the load on the fuel pump itself (current draw)? Do you have a code set? If pressure is your primary issue - I would think you would have a code set.
Hi, thanks for checking. I do have 3 codes. Error codes are p0451,p0441, p0452. The only 2 options in the Haynes manual are on the fuel tank or built into the charcoal canister. But my truck is a 2005 v6.
@@NoSaltNation HI, I also have same issue on my 2005 4runner my code is P0453 but I cannot find pressure sensor, if you found it please comment me, thanks
Hi Rick, I also have a 05 4Runner but the V8. I’ve been recently having some issues similar to yours but yet a different problem with the gauges affected. My fob/antitheft(stock) just stopped working, the clock is always at 100 when I turn on the ignition, but keeps time and temp while running/driving..and the gauges flicker almost like they are calibrating?. Weird anyway. did both battery checks, fob and vehicle, not that, checked fuses, not that🤔 My gas gauge and other gauges all work, a/c works everything but my antitheft and the clock. The garage I took it to said it could be my bcm, but my spider senses say no, had a mobile mechanic check my bcm diagnostics, everything came back normal. Maybe gauge cluster issues?, is there a connection to this and my fob problems, the clock always resetting? Are you perplexed yet? Is there any trouble shooting for when antitheft stops working in your manual. So glad you figured out your gas gauge problem, that was a huge undertaking, wow. I wouldn’t know where to begin with something like that. Well any advice would be greatly appreciated. Have a great day.
Hi Terry, I don't believe it would ever cause a problem. Like you said: You can simply write down your mileage every time you fill the tank and watch the odometer.
Thanks for posting. I have the same problem with my 2005 4Runner but now it is only allowing me to fill up to 7 gallons at a time and everyday it goes from full to half tank the next day to empty without driving it. Is this something I can not fix and just watch the miles or is it where if I really was on empty it will only let me fill up to 7 gallons which means I'd have to get gas every other day!?
You're welcome. I have the V6 engine: So I can only speak for the mileage my V6 gets. My tank holds 24 gallons, and I can go slightly over 400 miles on a full tank. Here is what I suggest: * Fill up you vehicle. * Fill up a 5 gallon gas can. * Write down your mileage (or reset your trip odometer). * Keep the full 5 gallon gas can in your vehicle. * Drive it until your odometer shows that you have gone 350 miles. * At 350 miles: I would fill the gas tank again. ** If that works well: Reset the trip odometer, and refill at 350 miles again. The only reason I suggest you keep a full 5 gallon gas can inside the vehicle is in case something else is going on with yours: You will have gas with you if you need it. After you are sure you can go 350 miles - you can empty the gas can and stop carrying it with you. Rick
I have 2004 gx470. Uses same part number. Mine looked just like yours with the burn marks. Poor design. Guaranteed to fail. Expensive to fix. Took my mechanic 3 hours and he is a pro. You can’t drain the tank to do the job . No way to know how much gas in the tank. Mine was almost half full.
I am having a similar problem on my 08 4Runner. When you would run your gas to E would the gas light ever come on? I ran mine very low last week and it never came on.
Rick S Thanks for the reply Rick, the reason I was asking was because when it usually hits the E my light would come on and on my last couple tanks i’ve been getting about 100 miles less and now that I’ve run across this video I’m thinking it has to be the gauge and not that i am burning more gas.
Hi Josh, I don't know if your issue is the gauge or the sending unit: But if you're getting 100 less miles on a tankfull - you would know if you had engine problems - because you would see, hear, or feel the engine problem. Do what I did: Put a full 5 gallon gas can in the back, fill up the car's tank, mark your mileage, and drive it 60-90 miles past when you're at "E." If you can keep driving way after you're at E, you still have gas in the tank. If that's the case, I would suspect your sending unit.
Hey Rick, decided to go ahead and do this. I made the swap but after a day it went from completely full to down half a tank after only driving 100 miles or so. Any recommendations?
Rick S it would read full to gradually go down to reserve in the span of only driving to and from work in a day. So I went ahead and changed it out with a buddy. A couple stubborn hoses to take off and put back on but managed to connect it all together and no leaks, I checked throughout the day today.
Rick S I did the swap yesterday and it was running with a full reading for the rest of the day yesterday and after 69.5 miles it went back to gradually decreasing by the quarter. Don’t know why :/
So it sounds like it is doing the same thing as it was before, more or less. I know I had some concerns with the connectors at both ends of that short wiring harness that connects the sending unit to the connector on the upper basket. They ended up being okay on mine. Did you look at all of those connectors/connections?Did you buy an OEM Toyota sending unit? Other than that: The only thing I can suggest is to do the resistance readings like I did. That will tell you if everything at that connector at the top of the basket (which is everything inside the tank) is good or not. Take a good look at all the contacts on both ends of that top connector also.
Rick S no unfortunately I didn’t have access to a voltmeter, I did end up getting the part from a Toyota dealer though. You happen to know what readings I need to be looking at? I’m assuming you have it in your video lol
Hello. You’re welcome. Thank you for leaving a comment. Please click on the words “Rick’s Tid-Bits” underneath the video to go to my UA-cam channel. I think you’ll find some helpful and unique tips in my How to Make Life Easier or Better section. ua-cam.com/channels/c-IuUFzC2Tyv06KzJyBESg.html Rick
@@rickstid-bits before I changed it the needle would go to Full when I turned the key on. Since I changed the sending unit the needle only moves to E and the low fuel light comes on
If it were me: The next step would be to determine if the problem is before, or after, the sending unit. I would find the wiring diagram, see how 12 volts and ground are supplied to the sending unit, open the panel that is under the rear seat, and then see if that ground and 12 volts are solid. In-other-words: Is the input to the sending unit good. If it is: Then I would start tracing the output wires.
I am having a similar issue with my Camry 2008,gauge is erratic and when the road slopes so does the gauge so I never have an accurate reading of my gas. Unfortunately I cannot find someone to help me fix this in Abuja. My tank reading doesn't even get to E before the car starts beeping. Even if I fill up the tank,as long as the road is bent,the fuel gauge bends too
I'm sorry I can't help you Ruth. The one thing you can suggest is this: Fill the gas tank. Fill a 2-5 gallon gas can and put it in the trunk. Reset your trip odometer to 0. Drive the car until it runs out of gas. Write down how many miles you went. Pour the gas can gas in the tank so you can get to a gas station. Then, fill the tank the rest of the way. Reset your trip odometer to 0 again. Let's say you drove 400 miles when you ran out of gas. So, from now on: Use your trip odometer as your gas gauge. When you have driven around 350 miles . . . Fill the tank. Reset the trip odometer. And do that again and again.
No. This vehicle calls for 87 octane fuel. Using a fuel with a higher octane number has no benefit. And you can't buy gas at a gas station with a number lower than 87.
Hi Michael. Not in the 2005 4Runners. That access hole is simply to get to the electrical connectors and maybe a hose. It is not wide enough, or in the direct "straight up" above the access hole, to be able to pull that entire fuel gauge/pump/filter assembly out through that hole.
Rick S Well next time to make it easier just cut a larger hole to gain access. I have done it to all the pumps I have changed. And just seal it up good after.
Hi Larry, If my memory serves me correctly . . . I believe they have a c type colored clip that you simply lift up on one side and it releases. However, I might be wrong.
Hey i have a 07 toyota 4runner sr5 4.0 and my car die on me 1 time .and the screen is telling me that i have 23 mile still no low gas light come on..the gauge don't go low to turn the light on..u tink its sain problem.
Hello, If that's never happened to you before: The first thing I would do is put 5 gallons of gas in a gas can, put that in the 4Runner, and see if it starts.
I have a 2006 4runer with a reverse problem. My gauge is showing I have less than a 1/4 of gas and it empty. My range shows that it has 20 miles to go. Will your solution correct my problem?
Hi Dennis, As of right now, I don't know. You saw in my video that I dd a tremendous amount of troubleshooting to diagnose mine. I don't have enough information about yours to give you an educated guess. I can suggest this: I get roughly 400 miles on a full tank. Fill your gas tank, and reset your Trip A odometer. Watch your odometer as you use-up the gas. With my gauge working correctly (on my V6 motor), I am at 3/4 full at about 100 miles. 1/2 tank at 200 miles. 1/4 tank at 300 miles. How does your gauge compare? Does your gauge go to full with a full tank of gas? How does it read for that last 100 miles? A nice smooth transition to zero or it stays at 1/4?
Hello, Yes. It did. It went back to its usual reading after a few tank fulls. Then, I went on a 1300 mile, highway miles, round trip and the range number went even higher (423) with the next few tank fulls. On the long trip the MPG must have increased due to the highway speeds, so the computer calculated the range based off the "updated" MPG times gallons in the tank.
Great video! Much respect but in all reality it way to long just to get to the point, you repeated yourself on a lot of information when anyone who is seeing this is pretty much to a point mechanically inclined just need a bit of pointers. Who cares about the history of your vehicle, what you did on your miles and how long you owned it, where you go get your gas or the rewards. Much better if you had of made a video just about the problem not the history of you or your vehicle
Hi I’m having similar problems , except I’m running out of gas right below 1/4 tank, it’s happened twice now around the same level but my range finder was reading 44 miles left the first time and then 67 miles left the second time but the needle was around the same level. If I fill the tank with a lot of gas the range find will read higher, if I were to throw let’s say $15 In the tank the needle might go up but not the range finder. I’ve been treating my 1/4 take line as my E line but I would like to fix this. Do you think my fuel sending unit is the problem ?
The fact that author uses Fluke multimeter already tells me about his intend to do a perfect job. Well done! Very informational video.
Thank you for the kind words.
Thank you for posting this video. I have a 2005 Toyota 4Runner SR5 have an exact same issue. It is 18 years old now ,the dealership wants to charge me $1500 to repair this issue.
Hello. You’re welcome. If you tackle the project - please come back and let me know how it went. Thank you for leaving a comment. Please click on the words “Rick’s Tid-Bits” underneath the video to go to my UA-cam channel. I think you’ll find some helpful and unique tips in my How to Make Life Easier or Better section, and my Trains section. ua-cam.com/channels/c-IuUFzC2Tyv06KzJyBESg.html Rick
It was the sending unit. You’re welcome.
Brilliant presentation. Like you, I appreciate (and need) the details and answers to the “why” questions. My son in law is experiencing identical issues on his 2006 4Runner. I’m hoping the back seat access hole is larger than on the 2005 but dropping the tank isn’t a show stopper for us. Again, thanks!
Hi Piper. Thank you for the kind words. You’re welcome. Let me know how it goes.
Please click on the words “Rick’s Tid-Bits” underneath the video to go to my UA-cam channel. I think you’ll find some helpful and unique tips in my How to Make Life Easier or Better section. ua-cam.com/channels/c-IuUFzC2Tyv06KzJyBESg.html Rick
Very informative video. Very thorough. It looks like even though he didn’t know what he was doing, he figured it out and informed himself to be able to do a good job and provide information for everyone that may watch this video. I have the same issue with my fuel gauge and I’m planning to drop the tank to replace the part. Great job.
Another problem that can cause this symptom - Check the ground resistance of the brown wire of the fuel guage float before going through the trouble of removing the tank. You might have a bad ground connection where ever it goes. You could splice a wire to the ground and ground it yourself.
When I started your video and saw your sheet tracking all the value, I could see you are a good trouble shooter.
Hi Jack. Thank you for the additional information, and the kind words.
I just did this job but I replaced the fuel pump. The gas tank can not just be dropped from below because of the short wires connecting the harness to the pump, so being how you have to take off the body cover to disconnect the wires I cut out a 8'' by 8'' peace so I could remove the pump from above- no need to drop the tank. Doing this made the job much easier it also allowed me to start the car and watch for leaks. The peace of body I cut out can be easily sealed up with silicone.
Hi John. Thank you for leaving a comment. Please click on the words “Rick’s Tid-Bits” underneath the video to go to my UA-cam channel. I think you’ll find some helpful and unique tips in my How to Make Life Easier or Better section. ua-cam.com/channels/c-IuUFzC2Tyv06KzJyBESg.html Rick
Thanks for the vid. Your video was more helpful than any other I'd found. I've got a factory service manual, AllData online access and a Chiltons but I still find it's VERY helpful to be able to see a vid of exactly what I'm getting myself into before I get started. Best use of UA-cam IMHO.
Just finished replacing the entire assembly on my 2007 4Runner Limited V8 (Toyota Part No. 77020-35102) which looks to be the same one as on yours. Buying from a dealership that sells online it was right about $400 shipped. All in all the whole job took about 5 hours for me including a mandatory lunch break (union rules or I go on strike). I'm sure it would have taken longer had I not watched your vid first.
My tank was 3/4 full when the pump died so after unclamping the filler neck I siphoned it empty before lowering the tank. I also didn't even bother pulling up the carpet to get to that almost useless access panel. I was able to lower the tank enough to get up in there and disconnect the wiring from underneath. Sure would have been nice if Toyota would have made that access hole large enough to pull the whole assembly out and in. They managed to do it for the Lexus GX470 which is almost the same vehicle as mine in most other aspects, though IIRC the Lexus you might have to actually pull the seats to get to it.
Nice video. Greetings from Democratic Republic of CONGO, in Africa. My gauge was reading more than what i have in tank. I filled up the tank, the gauge went to full. I drove more than 300kilometers, gauge was still indicating FULL... this video really helped me
Hi Teddy, Thank you for the kind words. I'm glad it helped you. Merry Christmas!
2008 4runner with 197000 miles. Very similar issues. Started around 194000 now on E all the time. Guess I need to take to Toyota for repair now. Not messing with it myself since its my only vehicle. Thanks for the in-depth video!
You're welcome. Thank you for taking the time to write to me.
This was super helpful when I replaced the sending unit.
Only thing I did differently was to actually remove that annoying vent clip from where it connects by the spare tire and fish it out rather than trying to disconnect it from on top of the fuel tank.
Thank you for this!
You're welcome. Thanks for letting me know it helped. Rick
I am going to be doing this soon. I haven't tested my sending unit yet, but it does not read accurately once it is around 1/4 tank remaining. Aside from getting a new fuel sending unit, what other parts did you need to order or do you recommend to order before doing this job? Assuming you are reusing the fuel pump. E.g., gaskets, etc.
Hi vettepwr. I don't think I needed any special tools. You will need a jack to lower it and then raise it. It's a bit heavy and awkward. I thought about replacing the fuel pump and o-rings while I was doing it. In the "old days" on older cars I would have done that because they were prone to failure also. I did not replace them on this one. I hadn't heard of a fuel pump failure on a new-ish
vehicle in ages. Plus, to get the pump (and o-rings?) from Toyota you had to buy the entire fuel cage assembly, which was ridiculously expensive. I'm still driving this and everything still works well. In fact, the vehicle works so well instead of buying something new, I just had it painted last summer! She just keeps-on marching-on! 208,000 miles now.
@@rickstid-bits Thank you for the quick response, I bought my 08 V6 with 206k miles 3years ago just to see what these trucks were all about. I'm at 298k miles now. I have been all over the US several times already.
Throoughly explaining things is the right thing to do this has to be the best informational video ive seen.
Thank you Kimberly.
Thank you for posting this. I have a very similar issue on my 2004 4Runner. I am certain it is the sending unit. Initially I thought I could do this myself through the hole under the seat but now I see that there is no getting around dropping the tank which changes the Level of Effort in this repair completely.
I'm glad it helped you make your decision. Thank you for letting me know.
Mohamad Alfakir i have same truck , the fuel tank has to be removed and its not for a beginner to tackle this job.
Rick, I think I must be your long lost twin brother. I am exactly like you. I maintain all my vehicles. And I too drive a TD Dodge Ram. Even built a few cars/ truck/ buggies from the ground up. (Long Story) My wifes 06 4 Runner (250K miles) is having the same fuel gauge issue. so I did a little search to see how much work it was going to be, and it brought me here. I have a 4 post car lift and transmission jack in my shop and with your explanation of how to get the hoses disconnected it's going to be a piece of cake for me. Thanks so much for posting up the details and video of how it's done. Great job with the Ohming out the sending unit. The kind of stuff I do too!
Hi Curtis, Thank you for the kind words. I'm glad it's helping people. Please come back and let me know how it goes.
@@rickstid-bits Will do Rick. It's going to be a week or 2 before I can get time to get it in the shop. Rebuiding the front suspensioin on my Dodge at the moment.
Well it's done! As of about 30 minutes ago. Replaced the sending unit no problem. Getting the hoses disconnected was a challenge, but they eventually let go. Thanks for the Video Rick. Sure made it a lot easier. I didn't have a wrench for the big fuel pump ring, so I wrapped a thin cheap walmart strap around it then looped it around a stick to make a strap wrench and it came off with nothing breaking. Took me about 3 hours with a dinner break in the middle.
Congratulations on your repair! I'm glad I was able to help. Thank you for sending me an update.
Rick, thank you so much for this video. I have a slightly different purpose than yours - I'm looking to install a kill switch in the 4runner to deter theft, to cut power to fuel pump. I have two questions for you. The first is, which wire on the fuel pump should I be looking to intercept with my switch, and where can I find it? Can I find it further "upstream" so that I don't have to tap in near the fuel pump? And the second question is, I am going to use a 3 way switch to route power to a car horn I purchased online, if the car is started with the switch in the off position. Should I add a fuse on my tapped fuel pump power line? Is there a possibility for excess current to somehow go through my switch into the fuel pump and fry it? Thanks again in advance and God bless!
Hi Lee, I'm sorry. I won't be able to help you with that. Rick
@@rickstid-bits no problem, thanks Rick!
You’re welcome. I'm sorry I couldn't help. Please click on the words “Rick’s Tid-Bits” underneath the video to go to my UA-cam channel. I think you’ll find some helpful and unique tips in my How to Make Life Easier or Better section. ua-cam.com/channels/c-IuUFzC2Tyv06KzJyBESg.html Rick
Great video I mean you did take a while to get to the point but I think it was worth watching your video talking about everything you did now I don't have to do it myself so I appreciate it I think that's would fix the problem on my 06 4Runner and you just save me months and months of doing all the testing thank you
Thank you. You're welcome. Let me know how your repair turns out.
Am stumped, have removed the fuel assy on my 05 runner, but am finding it impossible to remove the fuel pump from the housing. The fsm says to pull 2 claw tabs and pull out the pump. Tried it and pump isnt budging.pls help.
I have a persistent p0230 MIL,
I'm sorry I can't help you with that. I didn't remove the pump. Rick
I had an intermittent problem with my fuel sender, so I decided to change it and the pump as well while I was in there (original 18-year-old pump). I noticed you said that your distance to empty info display didn't seem to ever fully correct itself. On my truck I think it may have, as when I first turned the vehicle on, the D to E guage said 69 miles, whereas it was stuck on 0 miles before. It's worth mentioning I disconnected my battery before starting any of my work.
Hi Mac, Thank you for adding your experience. Mine did correct itself. I believe it took a couple full tanks to sort itself out. And that makes sense because the computer needed a couple times of knowing how many gallons the vehicle took, and how many miles it traveled, to become accurate again.
Nicee. How did you remove my fuel pump, am finding it hard to do. Fsm says to pull the claw tabs and pull the pump downwards, tried it no dice.05 runner
@@skywalker_0427 I'm not sure what you mean. You pull the access panel under the seat, undo the electrical connectors, fuel, and evap lines, then drop the tank. Unscrew the plastic lock ring and it pulls out from the top.
@@macgroober1396 i made a U cut and expanded the slot...didnt have to drop the tank. Have retrieved the fuel pump assy.changed the filter, but unable to remove the actual fuel pump from the assy
@@skywalker_0427 I can't help you in that case, I replaced my pump and sender as a unit, considering they were both about 20 years old when I changed them, i.e. "while you're in there..."
Nicely done video. My '05 4runner started giving erratic readings too recently. Around the same time I started using Lucas Oil-injector cleaner. Don't know if that's what caused it or if it's just the age. Great idea on using the trip odo. to keep track. Just wanted to say thanks again for the splendid detailed video.
Hi David. Thank you for taking the time to send me the kind words. Rick
Mine also started acting up after using lucas injector cleaner…
I've got a 2008. So the fuel filter is a little tiny piece inside the fuel pump assembly? Never swap it out unless the pump fails? Also, I like your methodology and level of detail. Knowing the process is always beneficial before just going in there and assuming something.
Hi JLA, Thank you for the kind words. My level of detail drives most internet people crazy. I'm not sure I said that about the fuel filter. I'm not positive, but I think the fuel filter is along the frame rail under the vehicle.
Good looking truck my dad recently got an new Toyota four runner several years ago and I took over his old truck i hope that its fixed soon
Hi, currently having same issue 05 4runner limited V8 - it did start with just the gas gauge. I took it to the dealer and they said I needed a new Gas Cap. After a $300 gas cap...the issue returned to the gauge but then all of the gauges on the dash were doing the same thing. jumpy needles. no speedometer. and odometer is also out. there's a source of connection because all the lights work. but all gauges are not working. I just use the digital gas gauge and haven't noticed any issues with the amount I have in the tank or when I'm filling up. just the gauges on the dash do not work. would this be the same issue as yours? I have another mechanic who's stumped by this issue.
Hi Melinda. I did not have that issue. My only problem was the fuel gauge. Since it's all the gauges on yours it has to be something common to all the gauges. I would look for a common Ground wire. And/or, make sure the power to the gauges is dead steady.
Please click on the words “Rick’s Tid-Bits” underneath the video to go to my UA-cam channel. I think you’ll find some helpful and unique tips in my How to Make Life Easier or Better section. ua-cam.com/channels/c-IuUFzC2Tyv06KzJyBESg.html Rick
I have the EXACT same vehicle with the EXACT same issues. Thanks for the great video. I’m 58, but I don’t have your gift. Wish I did.
You're welcome Brian. If you have it repaired, let me know how it goes.
@@rickstid-bits I will be working on it soon. I'll keep you posted.
Thank you, my 2005 4Runner which has 180k miles just started having this same issue. Guess I'll have to take it to a mechanic. This is a DIY I wont be able to do myself.
Well . . . How's that for timing. I just posted this about 15 minutes ago! I'm glad it helped you make your decision.
My new to me 03 had fuel gauge problem so I was dreading dropping the tank to do this job. Turns out my cluster gauge was bad.
Hello, That's good additional information to know. Thank you. Please click on the words “Rick’s Tid-Bits” underneath the video to go to my UA-cam channel. I think you’ll find some helpful and unique tips in my How to Make Life Easier or Better section. ua-cam.com/channels/c-IuUFzC2Tyv06KzJyBESg.html Rick
The range computer goes off previous data i think. Would have to clear the ECU.
Also some losses in mpg over the years are expected as compression goes out, timing chain gets slop, etc etc.
With the erratic measurements of sender. Put it on a lever. Just loosely screw down the end of a meterstick and put it close to the screw, then move the other end of the meter stick. You could easily get down to whatever resolution of change it wants. Not sure what the spec sheet says for range.
Hi Marc. Thanks for leaving a comment. You are correct. The range calculation was based off previous data. That corrected itself after a couple tankfulls. Rick
@@rickstid-bits thanks for the reply on a 4 year old video.
Mine just went sporadic and this video covers it well.
I guessed this was the issue. It's nice to be able to see how grimy that thing gets without pulling it.
You're welcome. Come back and let me know how it turns out. Rick
@@rickstid-bits 251k miles. 2007.
I probably will just let it run for another 5 years lol.
I always have 3 gallons in tge back. Once i finish my roofrack I'll have a whole Jerry can. So i don't care if it runs out.
I definitely was questioning if the tank was actually 20 gallons or if that was a hallucination. I was only filling 15 on dead empty
Thanks for the video helped me figured out what is wrong with my truck. My sensor went 1/4 of a tank to half a tank all of a sudden this morning. Guess I have another thing to fix lol thank you again.
You're welcome. Come back and let us know how it went when you're finished.
Hi I’m having similar problems , except I’m running out of gas right below 1/4 tank, it’s happened twice now around the same level but my range finder was reading 44 miles left the first time and then 67 miles left the second time but the needle was around the same level. If I fill the tank with a lot of gas the range find will read higher, if I were to throw let’s say $15 In the tank the needle might go up but not the range finder. I’ve been treating my 1/4 take line as my E line but I would like to fix this. Do you think my fuel sending unit is the problem ?
Hi Cody, I am not an auto technician, but this would be the first thing I replaced in your case also. Rick
Thanks for the video! I have a Lexus GX470 with similar issues. I’ll see if I can tackle the job of removal the tank.
Your video helped me change out my fuel pump.THANK YOU my friend.
Great! Thank you for letting me know!
Greetings from Texas.
Excellent video for the same issue on my 2008 4Runner! Thanks for your detailed explanation.
You're welcome. Thank you for taking the time to comment. Let me know how it turns out.
I’m pretty sure the total mileage remaining does an average, but can be reset if you disconnect negative battery cable.
My mileage remaining returned to normal after driving a couple tankfulls. The computer needed those miles driven vs. how many gallons it used to calculate the new numbers.
Great write-up, Thanx
Hi Joe, You’re welcome. I hope it helped.
Thank you for leaving a comment. Please click on the words “Rick’s Tid-Bits” underneath the video to go to my UA-cam channel. I think you’ll find some helpful and unique tips in my How to Make Life Easier or Better section. ua-cam.com/channels/c-IuUFzC2Tyv06KzJyBESg.html Rick
@rickstid-bits Ok, thanks, Greatly appreciated
Agree with you on buying original parts for electronics and sensors
Before changing your sending unit try Marvel Mystery oil at a rate of 4oz per 10 gallon of gas. Two tank fulls later my guage is back to normal. Update: a year later the issue reappeared. May be forced to replace the $100 sending unit??
Great video!!!! I have a '13 LX570 that's doing the exact same thing yours was doing. At 0 miles to empty and when the guage is at E, we can only put in aprox 15 gallons. That should mean we have at 9-10 gallons left in the tank at Empty. I'm definitely going to try the fuel sender. I'm not as meticulous as you, but thankfully you are. This video was a huge help!!!
Thank you for writing to me. I'm glad it helped you.
I have an ‘07 4 runner but my gage is the opposite. It will read 1/4 tank when it runs out of gas.
Great information. A shorter conversation to the point would have been more enjoyable.
Respectfully
I understand. I am definitely a "details" guy. That's just who I am. I hope it helped you.
Agreed, I’m a anal details guy myself and it does the trick in the end, but damn, it was painful.
Sir I appreciated your mechanical experience knowing that I was able to 1st see the source of the information was coming from a credible source who humbly gave credit as being blessed.
Thank you for the help. God Bless
The more detailed the better sir thank you!
First off, great job with the video. Im having an issue with an 07 with the "Range" display. The fuel gauge itself works perfect. I wouldn't be concerned with it if it were my vehicle, simply resetting the trip would be the same. It's my girlfriends car and she relies on it. Do you have any suggestions?
Hi Shane. Thanks. I'm sorry. I don't. What does the range not do correctly? Does the Average MPG read correctly?
excellent video, thank you for posting! Looks like my truck has the same issue. Any suggestions on what to else check before going ahead and ordering the new part?
You're welcome. The only thing I can say is go threw a few tankfuls of gas while watching your gauge and mileage. If your's is acting the same as mine did, that would be my first choice of parts to replace.
Rick S thanks, it’s been an ongoing issue for a few weeks now. At first the fuel gauge would go to from full to 3/4 after fill-up then slowly come back up. Then it would show off by about 1/8 tank, and now it’s off a 1/4 tank and wont go above 3/4 when filling up at the station. I always reset the trip odometer so I know how many miles since last fill up and it’s super low before showing empty (150-200 miles). The miles to empty calculated on the dash above HVAC has been fluctuating along with the gauge too.
Looks like everything points to the fuel level sender but I figured I’d ask before going through the hassle of dropping the tank.
@@beltwaybandits406 Sounds like what I was seeing on mine. Just remember it could also be the gauge itself or the computer. However, I was pretty confident mine was the sending unit, so that's what I changed first. Please come back and update me on how it goes.
@@beltwaybandits406 update us, how did it go?
@@oddsparrow3532 the problem went away after several months. It would only happen in the summer time when it was very hot & humid outside. I purchased the truck from someone who barely drove it so my guess is that the fuel level sender/arm was sticking a little from sitting all the time. Driving and refueling it regularly with top tier gas seemed to do the trick.
I just bought an 04 and i fill it with fuel and it doesnt go all the way full. My tacoma i just sold would do weird stuff too.
Does anyone know how much something like this would cost if you took it somewhere to fix it cuz I could not do any of what he has done. I'm having the same problem with my '05 4Runner. It started about 3 months ago and it's very erratic as well.
Hello. I'm sorry. I don't. If you ever do get a price quote for this repair - please come back and let me know what that amount is. Rick
@@rickstid-bits will do. Thank you
Just so you or anyone else reading this, Do not go all the way down to the E every single time, You’ll damage that fuel sending unit lever and can burn out the fuel Ump. I worked on Toyota’s chevys gmc ford dodge hummer Volvo Subaru Mitsubishi and ties the matter what brand vehicle you own. Chevy gmc have been known to go bad anywhere between 40-90,000 miles ..... burned the fuel pump.....
I am actually in the process of doing this. How did you end up getting that fuel tank vent hose off that sits on top of the tank? I have been stuck for a few hours trying to get it off. I even tried to remove it from the canister side and still no luck. Did you lower the tank at all ti get to it or did you remove it while the tank was still mounted? Any suggestions appreciated.
I'm sorry. I don't remember.
@@rickstid-bits No problem. I got it off. What method did you use to remove the fuel from the tank? I think I have about 5 gallons in there and I would like to remove it if possible to make life easier.
Good. I have a 12 volt gasoline/fluid transfer pump.
@@rickstid-bits I ended up powering the fuel pump itself using a 12V motorcycle battery and pump the fuel directly into a gas can. I was reinstalling the retainer ring using a flat blade screwdriver and I ended up breaking it. The manual calls to put the ring in the 4 and 5 o'clock position after 2 rotations but mine split when I tried to move it pass the 3 o'clock position. I ordered a new one including the gasket. Any tips you can remember for installing those?
I'm sorry. I don't. Aren't these the "spread" clips - that you slightly spread open with a screwdriver as you make the connection?
Hey Rick - extremely helpful video. I replaced the fuel sending unit in my '06 4Runner last weekend, and I couldn't have done it without your help. After replacing the sending unit and filling up the tank, I had the same issue you mention: the fuel range reads around 350 instead of around 415, like it did before I replaced the unit. I'm wondering...did the issue ever resolve with your 4Runner? Did you end up having to do anything else in order to fix it?
Hi Ron. Yes. It also fixed the range display. It initially read low like it showed at the end of my video. It was because the computer had been miscalculating the range for a long time - and that's the baseline info it had to go by. After a full tank full or 2 - the range went back up to where it used to be. Reset you MPG readings, fill it up, and give it a few tank fulls. As long as your fuel gauge now reads nice and steady from full to low - it will eventually read correctly.
how hard was it to drop the tank? having this issue on my 03 v8 runner and ordering the whole pump and sending unit. @ 220k miles so i figured might as well
Great video, thanks for taking the time to produce it. I have a 2005 V6 Tacoma and suspect the float sending unit is my issue as well. Just wondering if you have had any issues with your SRS Airbag sensors on your 4-Runner as I've had on my Tacoma where the Airbag light remains illuminated on the dash. I'm in my 60s as well and fix things too, just out of necessity, Unfortunately, I don't have your level of troubleshooting skill. Thanks for sharing your knowledge!
Hi Cayman, Thank you for the kind words. I'm glad my video is helping others. I haven't had any airbag issues on mine. The only other real issue I've had was the A/C Evaporator.
Thank you for this video! I’ve been having this exact problem for yrs on my 2003 4runner. You’ve solved my problem. Will definitely tackle this project!
You're welcome Anh. Let me know how it turns out.
@@rickstid-bits hey Rick , i finally replaced the float unit, you weren't kidding about the rear upper hose. thing was a PITA ! the driveshaft being in the way made it hard. but i got everything put back together and i think it solved the problem, the gauge is reading good so far.
Awesome! Nice job! Thank you for taking the time to send me an update.
I just found your video, I changed out my fuel pump yesterday and the car turned on so that was the main problem, I had to empty my full tank to take it out, now that it's back in I put about 5 gallons of gas back in just to get the car to turn on, now my fuel gauge is messed up (saying the tank is full) when I know it's not, and when I tried to put gas in my car, the gas spewed back up and the car won't take any gas in. I've done lots of research but have not seen anyone with the same problem, any suggestions? I would greatly appreciate
Hi Amanda, I was tied up at the hospital all day today. I will write to you tomorrow. Rick
Hi Amanda.
* On the filling the gas tank: The only way I can see that happening is if the hose from the filler neck to the tank got bent and is pinched closed. I don't remember what type of hose it is - so I would be surprised if it is lightweight enough to do that: But that's the only thing that I could see causing that.
* On the gauge: I'm thinking of a couple things.
1. Something has the float jammed in the up position. Possibly a wire got slid over and in the way, the arm got bent, etc.
2. During removing or reinstalling the assembly: The electrical wiper arm of the float got bent slightly and is not making contact with that pad anymore.
3. That area of the float has finally failed.
Let me know what you find.
You nailed my problem down... now to the wrenches!
Terrific! Let me know how it goes.
Im having an issue with my evap system on my 2005 4runned. I noticed that this vehicle didn’t have a fuel tank pressure sensor on the top of the sending unit either. Do you know where it’s located? Every Manuel I reference says it should be right on top of the white cap fuel sending unit.
Hi Justin, I just read through my Chilton's Manual. It doesn't mention a fuel pressure sensor. There is a Fuel Pressure Pulsation Damper, but there aren't any electrical connections on it. The manual does say the PCM controls fuel flow based on demand. I agree with you that something has to acknowledge that there is pressure. Could it be the load on the fuel pump itself (current draw)?
Do you have a code set? If pressure is your primary issue - I would think you would have a code set.
Hi, thanks for checking. I do have 3 codes. Error codes are p0451,p0441, p0452. The only 2 options in the Haynes manual are on the fuel tank or built into the charcoal canister. But my truck is a 2005 v6.
@@NoSaltNation HI, I also have same issue on my 2005 4runner my code is P0453 but I cannot find pressure sensor, if you found it please comment me, thanks
Lasha Jalaghonia , yeah I actually did find it. It’s built into the charcoal canister. For some models.
@@NoSaltNation Thanks for reply
Hi Rick, I also have a 05 4Runner but the V8. I’ve been recently having some issues similar to yours but yet a different problem with the gauges affected. My fob/antitheft(stock) just stopped working, the clock is always at 100 when I turn on the ignition, but keeps time and temp while running/driving..and the gauges flicker almost like they are calibrating?. Weird anyway. did both battery checks, fob and vehicle, not that, checked fuses, not that🤔 My gas gauge and other gauges all work, a/c works everything but my antitheft and the clock. The garage I took it to said it could be my bcm, but my spider senses say no, had a mobile mechanic check my bcm diagnostics, everything came back normal. Maybe gauge cluster issues?, is there a connection to this and my fob problems, the clock always resetting? Are you perplexed yet? Is there any trouble shooting for when antitheft stops working in your manual. So glad you figured out your gas gauge problem, that was a huge undertaking, wow. I wouldn’t know where to begin with something like that. Well any advice would be greatly appreciated. Have a great day.
Hi Carrie. I'm sorry. I can't be any help to you with that problem. I don't have any experience with that area of the car. Rick
If I do nothing and monitor my fuel with the odometer will it cause a problem? Will the sending unit eventually fail?
Hi Terry,
I don't believe it would ever cause a problem.
Like you said: You can simply write down your mileage every time you fill the tank and watch the odometer.
Thanks for posting. I have the same problem with my 2005 4Runner but now it is only allowing me to fill up to 7 gallons at a time and everyday it goes from full to half tank the next day to empty without driving it. Is this something I can not fix and just watch the miles or is it where if I really was on empty it will only let me fill up to 7 gallons which means I'd have to get gas every other day!?
You're welcome. I have the V6 engine: So I can only speak for the mileage my V6 gets. My tank holds 24 gallons, and I can go slightly over 400 miles on a full tank. Here is what I suggest:
* Fill up you vehicle.
* Fill up a 5 gallon gas can.
* Write down your mileage (or reset your trip odometer).
* Keep the full 5 gallon gas can in your vehicle.
* Drive it until your odometer shows that you have gone 350 miles.
* At 350 miles: I would fill the gas tank again.
** If that works well: Reset the trip odometer, and refill at 350 miles again.
The only reason I suggest you keep a full 5 gallon gas can inside the vehicle is in case something else is going on with yours: You will have gas with you if you need it.
After you are sure you can go 350 miles - you can empty the gas can and stop carrying it with you.
Rick
Thanks for the quick response! Yea mine is a V6 also. I will try this out!
Please send me an update after you do your troubleshooting.
I have 2004 gx470. Uses same part number. Mine looked just like yours with the burn marks. Poor design. Guaranteed to fail. Expensive to fix. Took my mechanic 3 hours and he is a pro. You can’t drain the tank to do the job . No way to know how much gas in the tank. Mine was almost half full.
I am having a similar problem on my 08 4Runner. When you would run your gas to E would the gas light ever come on? I ran mine very low last week and it never came on.
Hi Josh, Yes. The light came on when it should have.
Rick S Thanks for the reply Rick, the reason I was asking was because when it usually hits the E my light would come on and on my last couple tanks i’ve been getting about 100 miles less and now that I’ve run across this video I’m thinking it has to be the gauge and not that i am burning more gas.
Hi Josh, I don't know if your issue is the gauge or the sending unit: But if you're getting 100 less miles on a tankfull - you would know if you had engine problems - because you would see, hear, or feel the engine problem. Do what I did: Put a full 5 gallon gas can in the back, fill up the car's tank, mark your mileage, and drive it 60-90 miles past when you're at "E." If you can keep driving way after you're at E, you still have gas in the tank. If that's the case, I would suspect your sending unit.
About to fix my 05 4Runner. Same exact problem 🎃
Hey Rick, decided to go ahead and do this. I made the swap but after a day it went from completely full to down half a tank after only driving 100 miles or so. Any recommendations?
Hi JMD, How was it acting/what was it doing before you changed it? Did the swap go smoothly?
Rick S it would read full to gradually go down to reserve in the span of only driving to and from work in a day. So I went ahead and changed it out with a buddy. A couple stubborn hoses to take off and put back on but managed to connect it all together and no leaks, I checked throughout the day today.
Rick S I did the swap yesterday and it was running with a full reading for the rest of the day yesterday and after 69.5 miles it went back to gradually decreasing by the quarter. Don’t know why :/
So it sounds like it is doing the same thing as it was before, more or less. I know I had some concerns with the connectors at both ends of that short wiring harness that connects the sending unit to the connector on the upper basket. They ended up being okay on mine. Did you look at all of those connectors/connections?Did you buy an OEM Toyota sending unit? Other than that: The only thing I can suggest is to do the resistance readings like I did. That will tell you if everything at that connector at the top of the basket (which is everything inside the tank) is good or not. Take a good look at all the contacts on both ends of that top connector also.
Rick S no unfortunately I didn’t have access to a voltmeter, I did end up getting the part from a Toyota dealer though. You happen to know what readings I need to be looking at? I’m assuming you have it in your video lol
Comprehensive
Thank you
Hello. You’re welcome. Thank you for leaving a comment.
Please click on the words “Rick’s Tid-Bits” underneath the video to go to my UA-cam channel. I think you’ll find some helpful and unique tips in my How to Make Life Easier or Better section. ua-cam.com/channels/c-IuUFzC2Tyv06KzJyBESg.html Rick
I changed the sending unit on my 2006 4runner, filled it up and it's stuck on E... any ideas?
Hi Alan. Was it stuck on E before you changed the sending unit? Rick
@@rickstid-bits no it was stuck on full before I changed it
@@rickstid-bits before I changed it the needle would go to Full when I turned the key on. Since I changed the sending unit the needle only moves to E and the low fuel light comes on
If it were me: The next step would be to determine if the problem is before, or after, the sending unit. I would find the wiring diagram, see how 12 volts and ground are supplied to the sending unit, open the panel that is under the rear seat, and then see if that ground and 12 volts are solid. In-other-words: Is the input to the sending unit good. If it is: Then I would start tracing the output wires.
How much mile on your Toyota 4runner .ODO:?
189,000
I am having a similar issue with my Camry 2008,gauge is erratic and when the road slopes so does the gauge so I never have an accurate reading of my gas. Unfortunately I cannot find someone to help me fix this in Abuja. My tank reading doesn't even get to E before the car starts beeping. Even if I fill up the tank,as long as the road is bent,the fuel gauge bends too
I'm sorry I can't help you Ruth. The one thing you can suggest is this:
Fill the gas tank. Fill a 2-5 gallon gas can and put it in the trunk.
Reset your trip odometer to 0.
Drive the car until it runs out of gas.
Write down how many miles you went.
Pour the gas can gas in the tank so you can get to a gas station.
Then, fill the tank the rest of the way.
Reset your trip odometer to 0 again.
Let's say you drove 400 miles when you ran out of gas.
So, from now on: Use your trip odometer as your gas gauge.
When you have driven around 350 miles . . .
Fill the tank.
Reset the trip odometer.
And do that again and again.
Could the mileage counter under the radio have to do with the octane rating?
No. This vehicle calls for 87 octane fuel. Using a fuel with a higher octane number has no benefit. And you can't buy gas at a gas station with a number lower than 87.
Why did you remove the tank? There is an access hole to remove the sending unit?
Hi Michael. Not in the 2005 4Runners. That access hole is simply to get to the electrical connectors and maybe a hose. It is not wide enough, or in the direct "straight up" above the access hole, to be able to pull that entire fuel gauge/pump/filter assembly out through that hole.
Rick S Well next time to make it easier just cut a larger hole to gain access. I have done it to all the pumps I have changed. And just seal it up good after.
How much was that sending unit? Great video, by the way.
Hi Mike, List price was $114. I paid $82. I've been going to parts counter for decades and have a good relationship with them.
@@rickstid-bits thanks!
I just cut a larger hole to access removal of the fuel pump from the top under the seat. Took about an hour. But good video!
did that 4runner get a fuel filter?
Hi Steven, I did not change the fuel filter. It may be time to do that. I believe it is along the frame rail.
@@rickstid-bits nop
Thank you for the video! Very helpful!
You're welcome. Thank you for the note.
What did u use to disconnect the fuel lines?
Hi Larry, If my memory serves me correctly . . . I believe they have a c type colored clip that you simply lift up on one side and it releases. However, I might be wrong.
Hey i have a 07 toyota 4runner sr5 4.0 and my car die on me 1 time .and the screen is telling me that i have 23 mile still no low gas light come on..the gauge don't go low to turn the light on..u tink its sain problem.
Hello,
If that's never happened to you before: The first thing I would do is put 5 gallons of gas in a gas can, put that in the 4Runner, and see if it starts.
Do you know where the fuel filter is located can't get a answer anywhere?
Hello, According to my Chilton's manual; it is inside the fuel tank. It is the bottom most part of that white assembly that I took out in the video.
Thank you!
So when I go to screw my fuel pump down the fuel guage crashes with the first screw . Why is it shorting out. HELP
2001 4 runner
I have a 2006 4runer with a reverse problem. My gauge is showing I have less than a 1/4 of gas and it empty. My range shows that it has 20 miles to go. Will your solution correct my problem?
Hi Dennis,
As of right now, I don't know. You saw in my video that I dd a tremendous amount of troubleshooting to diagnose mine. I don't have enough information about yours to give you an educated guess.
I can suggest this: I get roughly 400 miles on a full tank. Fill your gas tank, and reset your Trip A odometer. Watch your odometer as you use-up the gas. With my gauge working correctly (on my V6 motor), I am at 3/4 full at about 100 miles. 1/2 tank at 200 miles. 1/4 tank at 300 miles. How does your gauge compare? Does your gauge go to full with a full tank of gas? How does it read for that last 100 miles? A nice smooth transition to zero or it stays at 1/4?
That's because you were born in 1958! But that doesn't work for me! LOL
He should have put a rick roll in there
Did your range reset itself yet?
Hello, Yes. It did. It went back to its usual reading after a few tank fulls. Then, I went on a 1300 mile, highway miles, round trip and the range number went even higher (423) with the next few tank fulls. On the long trip the MPG must have increased due to the highway speeds, so the computer calculated the range based off the "updated" MPG times gallons in the tank.
well im glad you got straight to the piont and didnt waffel on and on and on ha ha
Thanks
You're welcome.
I'm sorry, reading resistance on every multimeter I've ever used offers the potential of
potential of what?
God is Good! I love you gave him the glory!
Amen Sean! Merry Christmas!
Same issues thx
👍
the 1999 Camry is invisible LOL
Chalk it up to that part being made on a Monday or Friday.
I give him zero star. Because it’s a lot talk and less action.
Great video! Much respect but in all reality it way to long just to get to the point, you repeated yourself on a lot of information when anyone who is seeing this is pretty much to a point mechanically inclined just need a bit of pointers. Who cares about the history of your vehicle, what you did on your miles and how long you owned it, where you go get your gas or the rewards. Much better if you had of made a video just about the problem not the history of you or your vehicle
Tweaker
Gnat's ass, love it
Hi I’m having similar problems , except I’m running out of gas right below 1/4 tank, it’s happened twice now around the same level but my range finder was reading 44 miles left the first time and then 67 miles left the second time but the needle was around the same level. If I fill the tank with a lot of gas the range find will read higher, if I were to throw let’s say $15 In the tank the needle might go up but not the range finder. I’ve been treating my 1/4 take line as my E line but I would like to fix this. Do you think my fuel sending unit is the problem ?