I got a 05 civic that recently started to suck the life out of my gas tank. I would leave the needle at half tank and come back to drive it a couple hours later and it would drop to quarter tank[:@]. this is drilling a hole in my wallet. I was told that it could be the fuel filter but I want other opinions.

 

You seem to have a fuel leak. Do you smell gasoline or can you see a leak around the fuel filter or other locations (see diagrams for '02-'03 Civic)?

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Fuel filter wouldn't remove gas from your car while not driving it unless it's LEAKING. It's possible that if you leave the car for a while, you may not even notice a leakas the gas may have evaporated before you return.

 

Then again thefloat thats on your fuel pump may be shot also. This way--- you'd never really know how much gas you have cause the float or sensor by the float or w/e isn't working properly. My dad's van (ford aerostar) and my old 87 200sx had the same problems. Yours just seems to new to have it already, but anythings possible. :/

 

i dont smell gas. i'm going to change the filter because i had a 93 accord 2 door that was giving me the same problems. after i changed the fuel filter it stopped. if it continues i'll have to carry it to the dealer for them to tell me if its the fuel leak or the top is leaking on the fuel pump.

 

Another thought:

Might someone be stealing your gas?

 

does the needle go up a little when the car is warm (when driving). i have notice that manufacturers might have included some sort of mpg useage in to the fuel guage. so when its cold it uses more so the needle points lower and when it is warm it uses less and points higher. i belive this is correct but i have no evidence of this.

 

the needle does do that because its winter now. but i encountered another problem.[&:]i cant find the fuel filter. i looked on the top of the engine, under the engine and under the trunk where the muffler is and i still cant find it. i dont know wat to do. i think i'm goin to find a service center and have them show me where it is. the diagram above is for a hatch and i havea 4 door which apparently is totally different. thnx all.

 

believe it or not, it was the motor oil i had in the car. i was using castrol 5w30 because autozone has the sale on the oil and filter. i just bought some honda genuine 5w20 motor oil after looking at the owners manual and i'm doing excellent on gas. anyone having a honda be sure to spend a little extra on your motor oil. it will make a difference

 

oil huh, glad i put 5w20 in my fit. I had some 10w30 around and the thought did cross my mind.