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How many gallons of gas is a full tank?

A full tank typically holds about 12 to 30 gallons, depending on the vehicle, with most common passenger cars landing in the 12–20 gallon range. The exact capacity varies by make, model, and trim, so check your owner’s manual or the fuel-filler door label for the precise figure.


Typical ranges by vehicle type


Vehicle size and design influence tank capacity. The ranges below reflect what many gasoline-powered cars, crossovers, SUVs, and pickups offer in modern configurations.



  • Subcompact cars: roughly 11–12 gallons

  • Compact cars: roughly 12–14 gallons

  • Midsize cars: roughly 13–16 gallons

  • Full-size cars and luxury sedans: roughly 15–20 gallons

  • Crossovers/SUVs: commonly 16–24 gallons

  • Pickup trucks: typically 23–34 gallons


Keep in mind that some models use smaller or larger tanks, and hybrid or plug-in variants may have different usable capacities. For planning purposes, this range covers the majority of current gasoline-powered vehicles.


Finding your exact tank capacity


To know the precise number for your vehicle, use a few reliable sources that reflect your exact model year and configuration.


Manual and official sources


The owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s official spec sheet will list the gross fuel tank capacity in gallons (or liters, with a conversion).


Vehicle labeling and online lookups


Look for a label on the fuel door or inside the fuel filler area, and use official online resources or VIN-based databases to confirm the figure for your trim.


When you have the exact capacity, you’ll have a clearer sense of your car’s range between refills and how many miles you can drive on a full tank under typical conditions.



  1. Identify your exact vehicle model year, trim, and configuration.

  2. Consult the official spec sheet or manufacturer site for the precise tank capacity.

  3. Note the difference between total capacity and usable capacity (the amount you can actually fill before refueling).


With these steps, you can determine your vehicle’s exact full-tank capacity and plan fueling stops more accurately.


Summary


In short, a standard gasoline tank ranges widely by vehicle. Most modern cars fall in the 12–20 gallon band, while many SUVs and trucks push into the 20s or 30s gallons. Always verify with your owner’s manual or the fuel-door sticker to know your specific vehicle’s capacity, and use that figure to estimate range and fuel planning.

Is 16 gallons of gas a full tank?


Most standard passenger cars hold between 12 to 16 gallons of gas. However, this can vary based on the size and type of the vehicle. Compact cars might have smaller tanks, while full-sized sedans could offer a larger capacity.



How many gallons is $20 of gas?


$20 of gas is roughly 5.8 to 6.1 gallons, but the exact amount depends on the price per gallon, which varies by location. You can calculate the exact number of gallons by dividing $20 by the price per gallon. 
Example calculations

  • At an average price of $3.35$ 3.35$3.35 per gallon: $20÷$3.35≈5.97$ 20 divided by $ 3.35 is approximately equal to 5.97$20÷$3.35≈5.97 gallons 
  • At an average price of $3.45$ 3.45$3.45 per gallon: $20÷$3.45≈5.80$ 20 divided by $ 3.45 is approximately equal to 5.80$20÷$3.45≈5.80 gallons 
  • At an average price of $3.50$ 3.50$3.50 per gallon: $20÷$3.50≈5.71$ 20 divided by $ 3.50 is approximately equal to 5.71$20÷$3.50≈5.71 gallons 



How many gallons are in a full tank of gas?


The number of gallons in a full tank of gas varies by vehicle, but passenger cars typically hold 12 to 16 gallons, while SUVs and full-size trucks can hold significantly more, from 16 to over 30 gallons. To find the exact capacity for your vehicle, consult your owner's manual or check the specifications online. 

  • Small, fuel-efficient cars: Around 12 gallons.
  • Compact cars: Typically 12-14 gallons.
  • Mid-sized sedans: Generally 14-18 gallons.
  • Large SUVs: Often hold 18-24 gallons.
  • Full-size trucks: Can hold 24-36 gallons or more.
  • How to find your vehicle's capacity: Check your owner's manual or the information on your specific model's page on the manufacturer's website.



How many gallons of gas does a full-size car hold?


A typical gas tank size for a standard car usually ranges between 12 to 16 gallons. This range allows for a balance between the vehicle's weight and its travel range.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.