Draining a fuel tank on a VE Commodore is a messy job that scares most people. You might have put the wrong fuel in the car or maybe you need to fix a leak. Whatever the case, I will show you how to do it safely at home without a trip to the shop.
You need to get the fuel out of the tank from the top. Do not try to poke a hole in the bottom of the tank. Open the rear seat to find the fuel pump access cover. You must disconnect the lines carefully to avoid a spray. Use a siphon pump to move the gas into a safe container.
Reasons to Empty the Fuel System
Sometimes you get stuck with a bad batch of gas or a wrong fuel in tank situation. It happens to the best of us. Here is why you might need to empty your tank before you drive the car any further and damage the engine.
Bad Fuel Quality
If you filled up with contaminated gas, your car will run poorly. It might sputter or stall at traffic lights. You need to pull that bad fuel out, because it clogs the filters and injectors. Leaving it inside will only lead to bigger repair bills and a dead engine.
Long Term Storage
Maybe you want to leave your car for months while you travel. Fuel breaks down over time, so it turns into a gummy mess. You should drain the tank to protect your pump and lines. Old gas can ruin the entire system if it stays there for too long.
Internal Tank Rust
Metal tanks can rust if you let them sit empty for years. Even plastic tanks have parts that corrode. You might notice dark particles in your fuel filter, so you should drain the tank to inspect it. This keeps your system clean, and it prevents those chunks from moving forward.
Pump Failure Signs
Your fuel pump sits inside the tank, and it needs gas to stay cool. If it stops working, you have to drain the tank to pull it out. A broken pump is a common headache, but you can swap it if you have the right tools and a little bit of patience.
Fuel Leak Repair
A pinhole leak or a cracked seal means you lose gas on the road. This is dangerous, so you should stop driving right away. Draining the tank lets you get under the car to patch the leak. Never work on a tank that is full of liquid fuel.
Performance Part Upgrades
Some people want to install a high flow pump to make more power. You cannot do this with a full tank of gas. You must drain the tank to avoid a spill, because safety comes first. Take your time, work slowly, and keep the area free of any sparks.
You have to be careful with gas fumes when you work on the car. Keep the garage door open, so you have plenty of fresh air. Wear gloves, and have a fire extinguisher nearby just in case.
- Work on flat ground
- Use metal fuel cans
- Keep rags handy
- Wear eye protection
- Disconnect the battery
- Work in daylight
✅ Also Read: How to Drain a Ford Fiesta Fuel Tank
How to Drain a VE Commodore Fuel Tank
Draining the tank on a Commodore is not hard, but you must be patient. You will find the pump under the back seat. This is the only way to get the fuel out without pulling the tank from under the car.
Accessing the Fuel Pump
Pull the bottom cushion of the rear seat forward. It pops out of its clips with a sharp tug. You will see a metal plate held down by screws. Remove these to reach the top of the pump assembly.
Clean the dirt away from the top of the tank before you open it. You do not want any grit falling inside the fuel. Once the area is clean, unplug the electrical connector to stop power to the pump.
Now you can see the lines that send fuel to the engine. They have clips that you need to squeeze to pull them off. Put a rag under these lines, because a small amount of fuel will always leak out when you pull them.
Removing the Fuel Lines
Take a flat tool to push the plastic tabs on the fuel lines. They might be stiff, so wiggle them side to side. Do not force them, or you will snap the plastic fittings. Pull them off once the clips release.
The lines hold pressure, so keep your face away from the opening. Some fuel might drip onto the tank. Wipe it up with your rags right away, because the smell of gas is very strong in a closed car.
Once the lines are free, tuck them to the side. Make sure they do not fall back into the hole, or they will get dirty. You are now ready to put the siphon into the tank and clear it out.
Using a Siphon Pump
Buy a decent siphon pump from a hardware store. Do not use your mouth to pull the fuel, because swallowing gas is a major health risk. Insert the tube through the hole where the fuel pump sits.
Push the tube down until it hits the bottom of the tank. Start the pump, and let the fuel flow into a gas can. It will take some time, so just be patient while the tank empties.
Keep an eye on the container so you do not spill gas on your floor. If the container fills up, stop the flow and swap it for an empty one. You should keep going until the tank is totally dry.
Clearing the Bottom
When the pump stops pulling fuel, tilt the tank slightly if you can. Often a little bit of gas stays in the corners. Use a clean cloth to soak up the last few drops, because you want a dry tank for your repairs.
Check the bottom of the tank for any sludge or dirt. If you see junk, you might need to rinse the inside with a small amount of clean gas. Do this very carefully, and do not create any static or sparks.
Take a look at the fuel pump gasket while you are in there. If it looks cracked, you should buy a new one. A bad seal will cause a smell of gas in the car, and it can leak if you hit a big bump.
Safety During Fuel Removal
Gas is very dangerous, so keep all heat away. Do not smoke, and do not use an electric light that gets hot. Use a flashlight that is safe for work. This keeps you and your home safe from fires.
If you spill any gas on your skin, wash it off with soap and water immediately. The chemicals will burn if you leave them on for too long. Keep a bucket of water or sand close by in case of an accident.
Make sure your kids and pets are far away from the car. This is not a project for a busy driveway. Stay focused, and finish the job in one go so you do not have to leave the tank open for too long.
Putting It Back Together
Once the tank is empty and your work is done, put the pump back in place. Tighten the ring that holds it down, and make sure the gasket sits flat. If the seal is not perfect, you will have leaks when you refill the tank.
Reattach the fuel lines, and listen for the click. This tells you that the clips are locked. Plug the electrical connector back into the pump, and wipe down the top of the tank with a clean, dry cloth.
Put the metal cover back on, and screw it tight. Push the seat cushion back into its clips until you hear it snap. You are now ready to fill the tank with fresh gas and start the engine.
If you follow these steps, you will finish the job without any trouble. Just take your time, and do not rush.
- Use a proper siphon
- Clean the area well
- Check the fuel lines
- Replace the gasket
- Tighten every screw
- Test for leaks
✅ See Also: How to Drain a 2004 Mustang Fuel Tank
Common Problems After Draining
You might find that your car runs rough after you put fresh fuel in the tank. This is usually just air in the lines, so it should clear up after a few minutes of idling. If the car does not start, check the fuel pump fuse to see if it popped.
You should also check the fuel rail pressure to be sure the pump is working well. A bad connection at the pump can cause a low pressure reading. This makes the engine stumble under load, so check your wiring again if the car feels slow or sluggish.
Look for a check engine light on the dash. This will tell you if the computer sees a problem with the fuel system. Sometimes a loose cap or a bad hose will trigger a code, so pull that code to see what the car is telling you.
Finally, keep an eye on your fuel gauge. It might act a bit strange until the float settles down in the tank. If it stays stuck, you might have bent the arm while you were moving the pump, so keep this in mind when you work.
- Check the fuses
- Listen for the pump
- Verify the fuel lines
- Tighten the gas cap
- Monitor the dashboard lights
- Test drive slowly
✅ See Also: How to Drain a Ford Escape Fuel Tank
Tips for Safe Fuel Handling
Gasoline is incredibly volatile, so you must always treat it with respect. Never let gas sit in open containers, because the fumes can fill a room very fast. These fumes can reach a pilot light on a water heater, so work in a well-ventilated area outside.
Make sure you use approved fuel containers when you store the gas you drained. Plastic jugs that are meant for water or milk will dissolve. This is a huge mess, and it can lead to a fire. Only use red cans designed for fuel storage.
You should dispose of old fuel at a local recycling center. Do not pour it down the drain, and do not dump it on the ground. It kills plants, and it poisons the water supply. Most councils have a drop-off point for old chemicals like gas.
Do not wear clothes that are made of synthetic materials. These can build up static electricity, and a small spark can ignite the vapors. Stick to natural fibers like cotton, and leave your phone inside the house while you work on the fuel system.
- Use rated containers
- Avoid hot surfaces
- Work outdoors only
- Dispose of fuel properly
- Keep kids away
- Wear cotton clothing
When to Call a Pro
Sometimes the tank is just too damaged to fix at home. If you see a large crack in the plastic, you should not try to patch it. A leaking fuel tank is a fire risk, so have a mechanic install a brand new unit for your safety.
You might also run into a corroded fuel sender that is stuck in place. If the ring around the pump is rusted solid, you will break the tank if you force it. A pro has the right tools to remove it without destroying the housing.
Another reason to go to a shop is if you have persistent fuel smells inside the cabin. This means a vapor leak that is hard to find. A mechanic can use a smoke machine to find exactly where the gas is leaking, which saves you a lot of time.
Lastly, do not feel bad about asking for help. Mechanics do this every single day, so they have the right tools. Your safety is worth more than the money you save by doing it yourself. Just be honest about what you tried to do.
- Call for leaks
- Seek help for rust
- Use a pro for cracks
- Ask about smoke tests
- Get parts installed right
- Stay safe always
Tools You Might Need
You do not need a shop full of tools to drain your tank. A basic set of screwdrivers and a pair of pliers will get you through most of the job. Make sure you have a set of clean rags, because you will definitely need to wipe up a few spills.
A siphon hose kit is the most important tool you can buy. Do not rely on a simple tube, because the pump units make it hard to get to the bottom. A hand-pump siphon is cheap, and it makes the work much faster.
If you need to move the pump ring, a brass punch is a good choice. Do not use steel tools, because they can spark if you hit the metal ring. A brass tool is soft, so it is much safer to use near a fuel tank.
Keep a bright LED work light nearby. It stays cool, so it won’t ignite the fumes. You will want to see everything clearly, especially when you are putting the lines back on. A well-lit job is a safe and fast job.
- Small screwdriver set
- Hand siphon pump
- Brass punch tool
- LED work light
- Clean cotton rags
- Fuel safety cans
Final Thoughts
I hope this guide gives you the confidence to fix your car. Draining a tank is a big task, but you can do it if you stay calm. Always watch for leaks when you finish, and keep your workspace tidy. You will feel great once the car runs smooth again. Good luck with the repairs.
| Part Name | Function | Condition |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Pump | Moves gas | Working |
| Fuel Line | Carries fuel | Clear |
| Fuel Gasket | Seals tank | Uncracked |
| Fuel Cap | Traps fumes | Tight |
| Tank Seal | Holds pressure | Intact |
| Fuel Filter | Cleans gas | Clean |
| Pump Ring | Holds pump | Tight |
| Tank Plastic | Holds fuel | Solid |
| Wiring Plug | Power input | Secure |
| Fuel Sender | Shows level | Accurate |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Safe to Drain the Fuel Tank at Home?
It is safe if you follow every rule. Keep the area ventilated, use the right tools, and keep all sparks away. If you feel nervous, you should take the car to a shop instead. Your safety is the most important thing.
Can I Drive the Car with the Check Engine Light On?
You should not drive the car if the light is flashing. This means the engine is misfiring, and you can destroy the catalytic converter. If the light is steady, get it scanned to find the problem as soon as you can.
Are There Any Hidden Clips on the Fuel Lines?
Yes, the fuel lines have plastic clips that you must squeeze to release. They can be very stiff from the heat of the engine. Use a small tool to push the tabs in, and wiggle the line gently until it comes off.
Do I Need to Disconnect the Battery Before I Start?
You must disconnect the negative terminal on your battery before you open the fuel tank. This prevents any sparks from the fuel pump wiring. It is a simple step that keeps you safe while you work on the car.
Does the Fuel Pump Need to Be Replaced If It Gets Dirty?
Usually, you can clean the pump and the filter screen. If the pump makes a loud whining noise or fails to move fuel, you should buy a new one. A dirty filter will starve the engine of the gas it needs.
Should I Fill the Tank After I Drain It?
You should fill the tank with fresh fuel once you finish the job. This checks your work and makes sure the system is sealed. Check under the car for any drips while you fill it up to confirm there are no leaks.
Will the Car Start Right Away After I Put It Back Together?
The engine might crank for a few seconds longer than usual. This is normal because the lines are empty. Once the pump pushes the air out, the car will fire up and run smoothly. Give it a moment to stabilize.
Can I Reuse the Fuel I Drained From the Tank?
Only reuse the fuel if it is clean and free of water or dirt. If you drained it because it was old or contaminated, take it to a recycling center. Do not put bad fuel back into your car or it will run badly.
