What is the dual fuel tank operation on a Prado 150?
The Prado 150 can be equipped with two fuel tanks to extend driving range. In practice, you choose which tank feeds the engine via a dashboard selector, and the vehicle uses that tank's fuel until you decide to switch. Depending on the market and trim, some setups may include automatic switching or interconnections between tanks, but the exact behavior can vary by year and specification.
What the dual fuel tank system is
This system employs two separate fuel storage tanks and a common fuel delivery path to the engine. A dedicated selector and related hardware manage which tank is actively supplying fuel, allowing for extended range and reduced refueling stops during long trips or off-road work.
- Primary/front tank — the main tank used for everyday driving in many configurations.
- Secondary/auxiliary rear tank — provides additional fuel capacity for extended range.
- Fuel selector valve or switch — dashboard control that selects which tank feeds the engine.
- Transfer lines and pumps — hardware that routes fuel from the selected tank to the engine (and sometimes returns excess fuel to the tanks, depending on design).
- Fuel gauges and indicators — empty/full indications for each tank, and a selector status on the dash in some trims.
- Vent, filler, and safety components — two filling points or a dual-filler arrangement and the associated venting hardware.
Having two tanks helps drivers plan longer journeys without frequent stops for fuel, and it can also aid off-road driving where tank strategy matters for range and weight distribution.
How to operate the dual fuel system
Most Prado 150 dual-tank setups require a driver to actively select which tank feeds the engine. The following steps describe a typical operation pattern; exact controls and behavior can vary by market and year, so consult the owner's manual for your vehicle.
- Verify your Prado is equipped with dual tanks by checking for a second filler neck or a dedicated tank selector switch on the dashboard or center console.
- With the engine running, use the fuel selector control to choose Tank 1 (primary) or Tank 2 (auxiliary) as the active supply.
- Monitor the fuel gauges for each tank and plan a switch before the selected tank runs very low, if your model does not auto-switch.
- If your vehicle supports automatic switching, understand the conditions and limits described in the manual; otherwise, manually switch tanks to maintain continuous fuel supply during long trips.
In practice, drivers often use the main tank for daily driving and switch to the auxiliary tank for long-range journeys to reduce refueling stops and balance weight distribution.
Maintenance and troubleshooting
Regular care helps maintain reliability of a dual-tank system. If you notice irregular behavior, address it promptly to avoid running out of fuel or damaging the pumps.
- Check for leaks or damaged lines around both tanks and their connections.
- Inspect the fuel selector valve for sticking or intermittent operation and have it serviced if there is hesitation when switching tanks.
- Monitor fuel gauges for discrepancies between tanks and the engine’s fuel supply; seek calibration or sensor service if readings are inconsistent.
- Ensure venting and filler components are clear and secure, and that both tanks can breathe properly.
- Listen for unusual pump noises or cross-feed symptoms that could indicate a faulty transfer/pump assembly.
If you experience persistent issues, contact a qualified technician or Toyota service center. The dual-tank system is integrated with the vehicle’s fuel management, so professional diagnosis is advisable for any leak, switch failure, or gauge anomaly.
Tips for reliability and optimal use
- Regularly run both tanks to prevent stagnation of fuel and to keep pumps and lines in good working order.
- Keep the selector switch and its wiring clean and free of corrosion or damage, especially in off-road environments.
- When planning long trips, map out tank switching points to avoid running one tank dry unexpectedly.
- Check for any recalls or service campaigns related to the fuel system that could affect the dual-tank setup.
Following these practices helps ensure the dual-tank system provides the intended range and reliability across different driving conditions.
Summary
The Prado 150’s dual fuel tank arrangement is designed to extend range and provide flexibility for long trips or challenging terrain. Operation typically involves selecting which tank feeds the engine via a dash switch, with the exact controls and behavior varying by year and market. Regular inspection of the tanks, lines, selector valve, and gauges is important for reliability. Always refer to your specific vehicle’s owner manual for precise instructions and capabilities, and seek professional service for any suspected faults.
