Today, I ran my gas tank to a very low level. I had the trip computer run to zero, and then ran for another 12-15 miles before filling up. I've done this to my 1st gen TSX one time when I didn't want to stop for gas right away, since I know the fuel low indicate comes on pretty quick.

So, I thought I might be down to my last half gallon of fuel...However, when I went to the gas station, I filled up to 19.0 gallons of gasoline, which is higher than the stated capacity of 18.5 gallons for the 2nd gen TSX!

I can only think of these possibilities that can explain this phenomenon:

a) Is there a "reserve" portion of gas tank, so the 18.5 gallon is understated in the manual?
b) Did the weather play a role? It was in the mid 90s when I filled up this afternoon.
c) gas station just ripped me off since their fuel pump isn't calibrated

Any thoughts?

 

thats pretty crazy! haha

 

The fuel tank measurement is an approximate figure. Some manufacturers estimate their actual fuel tank capacity can vary as much as 3% from the tank capacity rating.

And remember, most modern cars has vapor head space (for emission) that is not included in the tank capacity calculation. So if the lane where you park your car are not level, you may end up fueling up that head space also.

 

Also don`t forget that you can start to fill the neck up. I don't know how much that it can hold.