Opening the gas tank on a Toyota RAV4 is a simple process, but it helps to understand the different methods for various model years. The location of the gas tank release has changed over the years, so the steps are slightly different depending on if you have a 1994-2018 model or a 2019-2023 model. With a few easy steps, you can access the gas tank to refuel your RAV4.
OPENING THE GAS TANK ON A TOYOTA RAV4 2019-2023
The 2019 and newer Toyota RAV4 models have the gas tank release located inside the vehicle on the floor next to the driver’s seat. Here are the steps to open the gas cap:
Pull the Gas Cap Release Switch
- Make sure the RAV4 is completely turned off and the key is removed from the ignition.
- Enter the vehicle and locate the gas cap release switch on the floor next to the driver’s seat. It has a circular emblem on it indicating the gas pump symbol.
- Pull up on the gas cap release switch. You should hear an audible click indicating the fuel door has been unlatched.
Remove the Gas Cap
- Exit the vehicle and go to the rear passenger side of the RAV4. The fuel door will now be ajar.
- Grasp the edge of the fuel door and swivel it open completely until it locks into place.
- Turn the round gas cap counter-clockwise to unscrew it. The gas cap is tethered to the fuel door so it cannot get lost.
- Pull off the gas cap fully and set it aside or allow it to hang. You can now insert the gas pump nozzle into the fuel filler neck.
Replace the Gas Cap and Close the Fuel Door
- Once you have finished filling up the gas tank, replace the gas cap by inserting it back into the filler neck.
- Turn the gas cap clockwise until you hear several clicking sounds indicating it is tightened securely.
- Close the fuel door fully until you hear it latch back into place.
- Enter the vehicle and press the gas cap release switch again. This will lock the fuel door until the next time you need to access the gas tank.
OPENING THE GAS TANK ON A TOYOTA RAV4 1994-2018
For older 1994-2018 RAV4 models, the gas tank release is a mechanical lever located on the floor near the driver’s seat. Follow these instructions to open the fuel door:
Pull the Fuel Door Release Switch
- Make sure your RAV4 is off and the keys are removed.
- Locate the fuel door release lever on the floor on the driver’s side. It may be labeled with an icon of a gas pump.
- Pull the lever up until it stops. You will hear an audible click indicating the fuel door has been unlatched.
Remove the Gas Cap
- Go to the rear passenger side of the RAV4. The fuel door should now be slightly ajar.
- Grasp the edge of the fuel door and swing it open fully until it engages.
- Turn the round gas cap counter-clockwise to unscrew it. The tether prevents it from being lost.
- Remove the gas cap completely and hang it or set it aside. Insert the gas pump nozzle into the now open fuel filler neck.
Replace the Gas Cap and Close the Fuel Door
- When you have finished refueling, replace the gas cap by screwing it back into the filler neck clockwise. Click it several times to tighten fully.
- Push the fuel door closed firmly until it latches back into place.
- Return to the interior of the RAV4 and push down on the fuel door release lever to lock it until the next refueling.
Accessing the gas tank on a RAV4 starts by locating the release switch or lever inside the vehicle. After unlatching the fuel door, remove the cap, refuel, replace the cap, and close the door. Take care to close everything securely to prevent fuel vapors from escaping. With practice, opening the RAV4 gas tank becomes quick and easy.
You can also read more about COMPARISON OF ALL TOYOTA RAV4 MODELS.
CONCLUSION
The process for opening GAS TANK ON A TOYOTA RAV4 and filler cap is straightforward once you know where the release switch or lever is located inside your particular model year. Newer 2019 and up RAV4 models use a push-button release on the floor, while older models have a manual pull lever. In all cases, the basic steps are pull the release, swing open the fuel door, remove the cap, refuel, replace the cap, and close the door. Making sure everything latches securely prevents dangerous fuel fumes from escaping. With a little practice, you’ll have no trouble accessing the gas tank in your RAV4 for quick and easy refueling.