Engine
What is a Fuel Tank?
Where the fuel lives until the engine needs it.
Simplified animation — not to scale.
In plain English
A sealed plastic or metal tank, usually under the rear of the car, that stores your petrol or diesel and houses the fuel pump and sender unit.
A simple analogy
"It is the car's drinks bottle — most of the time you ignore it, but a crack or leak is a serious (and smelly) problem."
How it works
You fill it at the pump. The fuel pump (inside the tank) draws fuel out and sends it to the engine. A sender unit floats on the surface and tells the dashboard gauge how much is left.
Signs of trouble
- ⚠Strong fuel smell
- ⚠Visible leak or wet patch under the car
- ⚠Fuel gauge reading wrong or stuck
- ⚠Trouble filling at the pump (back-spitting)
Rough UK cost
£350–£1,100
Parts: £150–£600
Labour: £200–£500
Always get a written quote. Prices vary by car, region, and parts brand.
Heads up: Carautonomy is for general guidance only. If your car is showing warning lights or behaving oddly, get it looked at by a qualified mechanic.