<em>Nissan Sunny FB15</em>gas tank: volume, replacement, repair and useful tips

Nissan Sunny FB15 is a popular sedan that has won the trust of car owners due to its reliability and efficiency. However, even such a proven car can have problems with the fuel system, and one of its key parts is gas tank. In this article we will look at everything you need to know about the gas tank. Sunny FB15: from its volume and location to the subtleties of replacement and repair.

Owners of this model are often faced with questions: what is the actual volume of the tank, how to remove it correctly, can it be repaired if it breaks or is it better to replace it right away? We have collected all the relevant information, including step by step instructions, diagnostic tips and even nuances that are not written about in the manuals. If you are planning work on the fuel system or just want to understand the structure of your car, this article is for you.

Gas tank specifications Nissan Sunny FB15

Gas tank in Nissan Sunny FB15 - this is not just a container for fuel, but an important element of the system, affecting the dynamics, consumption and even safety of the car. Main parameters:

• 🔢 Tank volume: According to official data, 50 liters (actual filling volume is about 45-48 liters due to the design of the filler neck).
• 📏 Material: plastic (high-density polyethylene) or steel - depends on the year of manufacture and configuration.
• 🔧 Location: under the rear seat, closer to the right side of the body.
• ⚖️ Weight: An empty tank weighs 8-12 kg (depending on the material).

Interesting fact: in some modifications Sunny FB15 for Asian markets, tanks were installed on 55 liters, but such versions were not officially supplied to Russia. If your car has a non-standard volume, check the VIN code or markings on the tank itself.

Parameter	Meaning	Note
Volume according to passport	50 l	The actual filling volume is 5-10% less
Material	Plastic/steel	Plastic tanks are lighter, but less resistant to mechanical damage
Fastening	2-3 bolts + clamps	Requires removal of rear seat and sunroof
Fuel level sensor	Potentiometric	A common cause of incorrect readings is contact oxidation

It is important to consider that plastic tanks more vulnerable to mechanical damage, but less susceptible to corrosion. Steel ones, on the contrary, can rust from the inside, especially if you often drive with a half-empty tank (condensation).

Where is the gas tank and how to get to it

B Nissan Sunny FB15 The gas tank is located under the rear passenger seat, shifted closer to the right side of the body. This is a typical solution for front-wheel drive vehicles - it optimizes weight distribution and simplifies the routing of fuel lines.

To gain access to the tank you will need:

1. Remove the rear seat (recline the backrest and remove the cushion).
2. Open the technical compartment hatch (usually secured with 2-3 plastic clips).
3. Disconnect the fuel pump terminals (required disconnect the negative terminal of the battery in advance!).

Under the hatch you will see the top of the tank with a lid, fuel level sensor and pipes. If complete dismantling is required, you will have to remove the entire tank - for this you need:

• 🔧 Disconnect all fuel lines (use keys on 10 And 12).
• 🔩 Unscrew the fastening bolts (usually 2 pieces on the sides + clamps).
• 🚗 Hang the tank on cables or safety belts (it is heavier than it seems!).

⚠️ Attention: before removing the tank drain the fuel completely! Even if the “reserve” light is on, 5-7 liters of gasoline may remain in the tank. Use a pump or siphon - never drain gasoline with your mouth!

What to do if the tank cannot be removed?

If the tank is stuck to the body, try treating the fasteners with WD-40 and gently tapping them with a rubber hammer. Do not use excessive force - you may damage the neck or pipes.

Signs of a malfunctioning gas tank and diagnostics

Problems with the gas tank Nissan Sunny FB15 are not as obvious as, for example, engine malfunctions. However, there are a number of symptoms that should alert you:

• 🛑 Smell of gasoline in the cabin - a sign of leakage or damage to steam lines.
• ⚠️ Incorrect fuel level sensor readings (the arrow “jumps” or shows an empty tank when there is gasoline).
• 🔥 Increased fuel consumption for no apparent reason (may indicate air leaks through cracks).
• 💧 Traces of rust or condensation under the tank (relevant for steel containers).

For diagnostics:

1. Visually inspect the tank for cracks, dents or signs of corrosion.
2. Check the filler cap for leaks (a common cause of foreign odors).
3. Measure the resistance of the fuel level sensor (should be within 40-250 Ohm when the tank is empty/full).

⚠️ Attention: if you find crack or breakdown, do not operate the car until the problem is fixed! Gasoline may leak onto hot parts of the exhaust system, which will lead to a fire.

Replacing the gas tank Nissan Sunny FB15: step by step instructions

If the tank is damaged or heavily rusted, it will have to be replaced. The procedure is labor-intensive, but doable with your own hands if you have the tools. You will need:

• 🔧 Set of keys (10, 12, 14).
• 🛠️ Screwdrivers (phillips and flat).
• 🔋 New gas tank (item number for Sunny FB15 — 17040-4M000 or analogues).
• 🧴 Sealant for the fuel system (for example, Loctite 577).

Work order:

1. Drain the fuel (you can use a hose or pump it out).
2. Disconnect the battery terminals and remove the rear seat.
3. Unscrew the technical compartment hatch and disconnect the fuel pump connectors.
4. Unscrew the tank mounting bolts (usually 2 pieces on the sides + pipe clamps).
5. Lower the tank on cable slings (weight ~10 kg, but the dimensions are inconvenient).
6. Install the new tank in the reverse order, after lubricating the O-rings with sealant.

⚠️ Attention: when installing a new tank do not over tighten the bolts - plastic may crack! Tightening torque: 8-10 Nm.

Cost of a new tank for Sunny FB15 — from 8,000 to 15,000 rubles (depending on the material and manufacturer). Used options can be found for 3,000-5,000 rubles, but the risk of buying a rusty or damaged container is high.

Gas tank repair: when is it possible and how to do it

A damaged tank does not always need to be replaced - some defects can be eliminated. However repair is possible only in three cases:

1. Small cracks (up to 2-3 cm) on plastic tanks.
2. Non-through corrosion of steel tanks (no holes).
3. Damage to the filler neck or pipes.

To repair a plastic tank, use:

• 🔥 Pike (polypropylene rod and hair dryer).
• 🧴 Epoxy resin (special, resistant to gasoline, for example, Poxipol).
• 🛡️ Fiberglass patches (for large cracks).

Suitable for steel tanks:

• 🔩 Cold welding (For example, ABRO Steel).
• 🔧 Argon welding (only in specialized workshops!).
• 🎨 Anti-corrosion treatment (after sealing the cracks).

⚠️ Attention: do not use regular superglue or duct tape — they dissolve in gasoline! It is also prohibited to repair tanks with through breakouts - they can only be replaced.

If the damage is located in the lower part of the tank (on the road side), after repair, be sure to install protective screen made of metal or plastic. This will prevent repeated punctures from rocks or road debris.

Cleaning and prevention: how to extend the life of a gas tank

Even if the tank is in good condition, it needs to be serviced periodically. Basic procedures:

• 🧹 Deposit removal (every 50,000 km or when changing the fuel pump).
• 🛡️ Anti-corrosion treatment (for steel tanks, once every 2-3 years).
• 🔄 Replacing the fuel filter (every 30,000 km).

How to clean the tank:

1. Drain any remaining fuel.
2. Fill the tank with 2-3 liters of pure gasoline or a special cleaner (for example, LIQUI MOLY Fuel System Cleaner).
3. Shake the car (or drive 5-10 km) so that the liquid washes away the deposits.
4. Drain the flushing fluid and repeat the procedure if necessary.

To prevent corrosion in steel tanks, use inhibitor additives (for example, ASTROhim Anti-corrosion protection). They create a protective film on the inner walls and prevent rusting.

⚠️ Attention: do not use water or detergents to flush the tank! They leave moisture, which will later accelerate corrosion. Also avoid abrasive cleaners - they can damage the plastic.

Common mistakes when working with a gas tank Sunny FB15

Even experienced car owners make mistakes when repairing or replacing a gas tank. Here are the most common:

• 🔥 Operation without disconnecting the battery - risk of sparks and ignition of gasoline vapors.
• 🔧 Re-tightening of mounting bolts - leads to cracks in the plastic tank.
• 💧 Ignoring condensation - if you leave the tank half empty in winter, water will form inside.
• 🛠️ Using non-original seals - they may not withstand the pressure and leak.

Another common mistake is incorrect installation of the fuel pump after removing the tank. If the pump is installed crookedly, it will work with overload and quickly fail. Always check its position using the marks on the body!

Also many people forget check the tightness of the system after assembly. To do this:

1. Start the engine and let it run for 5-10 minutes.
2. Inspect the tank and pipes for leaks.
3. Check the smell of gasoline in the cabin.

If after replacing the tank the Check Engine, most likely, the tightness of the gasoline vapor recovery system is broken. Check the canister valve and hoses.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the gas tank Nissan Sunny FB15

Is it possible to drive with a crack in the gas tank?

❌ No! Even a small crack can lead to a gasoline leak and fire. If the damage is through, the tank must be replaced. If the crack is superficial (on plastic), it can be welded or sealed with a special sealant, but this is a temporary solution.

Which gas tank is better - plastic or steel?

🔹 Plastic lighter, does not rust, but is vulnerable to mechanical damage.

🔹 Steel stronger, but heavier and susceptible to corrosion. For Sunny FB15 both options are original - the choice depends on the operating conditions. If you drive on bad roads, steel + protective screen is better.

Why is the fuel level sensor lying?

📌 Reasons:

— Oxidation of contacts on the sensor.

— Worn resistor (potentiometer) in the sensor.

— Damage to the float.

🔧 Solution: clean the contacts, check the sensor resistance (should change smoothly as the float moves). If the sensor is faulty, replace it (part number: 28501-4M000).

How to drain gasoline from a tank if the pump does not work?

🔧 Methods:

1. Via filler neck (use a clean hose and create a vacuum with your mouth or pump).

2. Through fuel rail (disconnect the fuel supply hose to the engine and drain into a canister).

3. Taking off fuel pump (if the tank is almost empty).

⚠️ Attention: Do not drain gasoline near an open fire or in an enclosed area!

How much does it cost to replace a gas tank at a service center?

💰 Prices (for 2026):

— Replacement of the tank: 3,000–6,000 rubles (depending on the region).

— Repair of cracks: 1,500–3,000 rubles.

— Cleaning the tank: 1,000–2,000 rubles.

💡 Tip: if you change the tank, replace it at the same time fuel filter And fuel pump mesh - this will save time and money in the future.