What is the fuel leak on the Prado?

A fuel leak on the Prado is gasoline escaping from the vehicle’s fuel system, typically due to worn hoses, corroded lines, or faulty seals. It creates a fire risk and requires prompt inspection and repair by a qualified technician.

The Toyota Land Cruiser Prado is a popular midsize SUV used in markets around the world. A leak can originate anywhere along the fuel system—from the tank and lines to the fuel rail, injectors, or evaporative emissions components—and the likelihood and exact source can vary by model year, region, and driving conditions. This article outlines what a fuel leak is, common causes, how to spot it, what to do safely, and how repairs and prevention work.

What causes a fuel leak in the Prado

Common failure points and conditions that can lead to a leak include the following:

Common failure points

• Aging rubber fuel hoses and clamps that crack or split


• Corrosion or damage to metal fuel lines along the chassis or underbody


• Loose or damaged fuel line fittings and connectors


• Worn or degraded seals and gaskets around the fuel injectors or fuel rail


• Faulty high-pressure fuel pump seals or O-rings


• EVAP (evaporative emissions) system components such as purge valves or canisters that develop leaks


• Punctures or abrasion from road debris or off-road use that damage the tank, lines, or fittings

Leaks can be more common on older Prado generations or in vehicles exposed to harsh climates, rough road surfaces, or aggressive driving that stresses the fuel system. If you notice fuel odor or wetness, treat it as an urgent safety issue.

Symptoms and safety steps

Recognizing signs of a fuel leak and acting safely can prevent injury and fire risk. The most telling indicators include:

Warning signs to watch for

• Strong gasoline smell inside or around the vehicle, especially near the rear or under the tank


• Visible wet spots, sheen, or droplets of fuel on the ground beneath the car


• Engine performance issues or reduced fuel economy, which can accompany EVAP system problems


• Fuel odor that persists after refueling


• Gurgling sounds or hissing near the fuel system when the engine is off

Safety note: A fuel leak is a fire and explosion hazard. Do not start or run the engine if you smell fuel near the vehicle; avoid flames, sparks, or smoking nearby, and move to a safe location. If the leak looks significant, contact roadside assistance or emergency services immediately.

What to do if you suspect a leak

Act quickly but calmly to minimize risk and arrange a proper inspection.

Immediate steps

• Pull over to a safe, well-ventilated area away from ignition sources and turn off the engine


• Do not smoke or use any devices that could create a spark near the leak


• Avoid contact with the fuel and do not attempt to wipe it up with rags or absorbents


• Call roadside assistance or a qualified mechanic and have the vehicle towed if necessary

After the vehicle is inspected by a professional, repairs may involve replacing leaking hoses, clamps, fittings, or sections of fuel line, or repairing related components such as the fuel tank or EVAP system. In some markets, dealers may have active recalls or service campaigns related to fuel system leaks; check your VIN with Toyota or your country’s regulator for the latest information.

Repair, maintenance, and prevention

Understanding the repair process and how to prevent future leaks can help keep the Prado safe and reliable.

Repair options and coverage

• Diagnosis by a qualified technician using fuel system pressure testing and leak detection methods


• Replacement of defective components with Toyota-approved parts (hoses, clamps, lines, seals, or EVAP components)


• Assessment and potential replacement of related components such as the fuel pump, tank, or mounting hardware if damaged


• Review of any applicable recalls or service campaigns tied to the VIN; follow manufacturer guidance for coverage

Prevention strategies include regular inspection of fuel lines and clamps during routine service, addressing signs of rust or wear early, and avoiding impact or abrasive contact to underbody fuel lines. For fleets or off-road use, more frequent checks may be warranted due to increased exposure to hazards.

Summary

Fuel leaks on the Prado are a serious safety concern that require prompt professional diagnosis and repair. They most often arise from aging hoses and lines, damaged fittings, or EVAP system faults, but can occur anywhere in the fuel system. Early symptom recognition, safe handling, and timely repairs—as well as checking for recalls and service campaigns—are essential for maintaining safety and reliability in the Prado fleet.

Is a fuel leak expensive to fix?

The cost to fix a fuel leak can vary significantly, from a few hundred dollars for a minor repair to over $1,000 for a major one. Factors influencing the price include the leak's location and severity, the type of fuel line (rubber vs. metal), labor rates, and whether a simple fix like tightening a fitting or a full part replacement is needed. For a car, a simple splice could cost a few hundred dollars, while replacing an entire fuel line assembly or fuel tank can be more expensive. 
Factors that influence the cost

• Location of the leak: A leak in an easily accessible area will be cheaper to fix than one deep in the engine bay or under the vehicle. 
• Type of repair:
  • Minor leaks: Tightening a loose fitting or using a sealant can be inexpensive. 
  • Major leaks: Replacing a section of a fuel line or the entire fuel tank will increase the cost. 
• Material of the lines: Rubber fuel lines are generally cheaper than metal or braided lines. 
• Labor rates: Prices vary depending on the repair shop and your geographic location. 
• Part replacement: Replacing an entire fuel tank or assembly will be more expensive than repairing a small section of line. 

Examples of costs

• Simple fuel line splice: Approximately $250 to $300. 
• Full fuel line assembly replacement: Could cost around double the price of a splice, roughly $500 to $1,000. 
• Fuel tank replacement: Costs can vary significantly, from a few hundred to over $1,000 depending on the vehicle. 

Why prompt repair is important

• Safety: Leaking fuel is a fire hazard. 
• Preventing bigger problems: Addressing a small leak early can prevent it from causing more extensive damage to your vehicle. 

Is it safe to drive a car with a fuel leak?

No, you cannot and should not drive with a fuel leak. Driving a vehicle with a fuel leak is extremely dangerous due to the high risk of fire and explosion, and it can cause further damage to the vehicle. You should have the vehicle towed to a mechanic to have it safely inspected and repaired.
 
You can watch this video to learn more about fuel leaks and how to identify them: 1m1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Mar 30, 2020
Why you should not drive with a fuel leak

• Fire hazard: Gasoline is highly flammable, and a leak creates a significant risk of ignition from sparks, hot engine parts, or open flames, which can lead to a vehicle fire. 
• Health risk: Leaking fuel fumes can be toxic and lead to health problems like headaches, dizziness, and respiratory issues, especially in enclosed spaces like a garage. 
• Environmental damage: Leaking fuel can contaminate soil and water, posing a threat to the environment. 
• Further damage: Continuing to drive can cause more extensive and costly damage to your vehicle's fuel system and engine. 
• Warning signs: Besides visible puddles or the smell of gasoline, a fuel leak can also be indicated by a strong smell of gas, poor engine performance, or a rough idle. 

What to do instead

• Do not start the engine: Keep the car off and move it to a safe location away from ignition sources, if possible. 
• Evacuate the area: Make sure everyone around the vehicle moves to a safe distance. 
• Arrange for a tow: Do not attempt to patch the leak yourself and have the vehicle towed to a mechanic immediately. 

What is the recall on the Toyota Prado?

TOYOTA AUSTRALIA RECALLS LANDCRUISER PRADO VEHICLES DUE TO ELECTRIC BRAKE CONTROLLER. Toyota Australia has today announced that it will initiate a safety recall involving certain LandCruiser Prado vehicles produced between 24th June 2024 – 3rd October 2024 (inclusive).

Does the Prado have two fuel tanks?

UPDATE, 18/11/2024 – Toyota Australia has confirmed the Prado 250 Series does come with a 30-litre sub fuel tank. In official specification data it's added together with the main 80-litre fuel tank to reach the total 110-litre fuel capacity.