The Toyota Corolla. It’s a name synonymous with reliability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. A favorite among commuters, families, and anyone seeking an affordable and dependable vehicle. One of the key factors contributing to its practicality is its fuel tank capacity. Knowing how many gallons your 2017 Toyota Corolla holds is crucial for planning road trips, estimating fuel costs, and avoiding unexpected stops at the gas station. This comprehensive guide will delve into the fuel tank capacity of the 2017 Corolla, exploring different trim levels, related fuel efficiency considerations, and essential tips for maximizing your Corolla’s range.
Understanding the 2017 Toyota Corolla Fuel Tank Capacity
The 2017 Toyota Corolla boasts a fuel tank capacity designed to offer a balance between minimizing weight and maximizing driving range. This design philosophy aligns perfectly with the Corolla’s reputation as a fuel-efficient and practical vehicle.
The Standard Fuel Tank Capacity
For the vast majority of 2017 Toyota Corolla models, the fuel tank capacity is 13.2 gallons (approximately 50 liters). This applies to most trim levels, including the L, LE, LE Eco, and XLE. This consistent fuel tank size across these popular trims simplifies fuel planning and allows drivers to anticipate their driving range accurately.
Exceptions and Variations
While 13.2 gallons is the standard, there’s a notable exception. The 2017 Toyota Corolla iM, a hatchback variant that was part of the Scion lineup before being integrated into the Corolla family, has a slightly larger fuel tank capacity. The Corolla iM holds 13.7 gallons (approximately 52 liters). This slight increase is likely due to design differences in the hatchback body style.
Why Fuel Tank Capacity Matters
Knowing your car’s fuel tank capacity is more important than you might think. It’s not just about knowing when to fill up; it’s about making informed decisions regarding your driving habits and budget.
Planning Your Trips
Perhaps the most obvious benefit of knowing your fuel tank capacity is the ability to plan trips effectively. When embarking on a road trip, knowing you have 13.2 gallons available allows you to estimate how far you can travel before needing to refuel. Combine this knowledge with your car’s fuel efficiency, and you can accurately map out gas stops and avoid unnecessary detours.
Budgeting for Fuel Costs
Fuel costs can significantly impact your monthly budget. By knowing your fuel tank capacity and tracking your miles per gallon (MPG), you can estimate your monthly fuel expenses. This allows you to create a more accurate budget and avoid any unwelcome surprises at the end of the month.
Avoiding Empty Tank Anxiety
Running out of gas is a stressful situation. Knowing your car’s fuel tank capacity helps you avoid this scenario. By keeping track of your mileage and being aware of how much fuel you have left, you can proactively plan your refueling stops.
Fuel Efficiency of the 2017 Toyota Corolla
The 2017 Toyota Corolla is known for its impressive fuel economy, which complements its practical fuel tank capacity. Understanding its MPG figures will allow you to accurately determine its range.
EPA Estimates for Different Trims
The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) provides fuel economy estimates for various 2017 Corolla trims. These figures are helpful for comparing the fuel efficiency of different models and estimating your real-world MPG.
- L, LE, XLE: These models typically achieve around 28 MPG in the city and 36 MPG on the highway.
- LE Eco: The LE Eco trim is designed for enhanced fuel efficiency, often achieving around 30 MPG in the city and 40 MPG on the highway.
- Corolla iM: The Corolla iM typically achieves around 28 MPG in the city and 35 MPG on the highway.
These figures are estimates, and your actual MPG may vary depending on your driving habits, road conditions, and vehicle maintenance.
Factors Affecting Fuel Efficiency
Several factors can affect your 2017 Corolla’s fuel efficiency. Understanding these factors can help you optimize your driving habits and improve your MPG.
- Driving Habits: Aggressive driving, such as rapid acceleration and hard braking, consumes more fuel. Smooth and consistent driving can significantly improve your MPG.
- Tire Pressure: Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency. Maintaining the correct tire pressure is crucial.
- Vehicle Maintenance: Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and air filter replacements, ensures that your engine runs efficiently.
- Weight: Carrying excessive weight in your vehicle reduces fuel efficiency. Remove any unnecessary items from your trunk or backseat.
- Road Conditions: Driving in stop-and-go traffic or on hilly terrain consumes more fuel.
Calculating Your 2017 Corolla’s Range
Knowing your fuel tank capacity and fuel efficiency allows you to calculate your 2017 Corolla’s approximate driving range. This calculation can be a valuable tool for planning trips and managing your fuel consumption.
The Simple Calculation
To calculate your range, simply multiply your fuel tank capacity by your MPG. For example, if you have a Corolla LE with a 13.2-gallon tank and achieve 36 MPG on the highway, your approximate range is 13.2 gallons * 36 MPG = 475.2 miles.
Real-World Considerations
It’s important to remember that this calculation provides an estimate. Your actual range may vary depending on the factors mentioned earlier, such as driving habits and road conditions. It’s always a good idea to add a buffer to your calculations to account for these variables. Aim to refuel when your tank is about a quarter full to avoid running out of gas unexpectedly.
Tips for Maximizing Your 2017 Corolla’s Range
Here are some practical tips to help you maximize your 2017 Corolla’s range and get the most out of each tank of gas.
Drive Smoothly
Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. Smooth and consistent driving is the most effective way to improve your fuel efficiency. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible.
Maintain Proper Tire Pressure
Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate your tires to the recommended pressure. This reduces rolling resistance and improves fuel economy. You can find the recommended tire pressure on a sticker inside your driver’s side doorjamb or in your owner’s manual.
Regular Vehicle Maintenance
Keep your 2017 Corolla properly maintained. This includes regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and tune-ups. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently and consumes less fuel.
Reduce Weight
Remove any unnecessary items from your vehicle to reduce weight. This can improve your fuel efficiency, especially on long trips.
Use Cruise Control
On the highway, use cruise control to maintain a consistent speed. This can help improve your fuel economy, especially on flat terrain.
Avoid Idling
Avoid excessive idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off your engine. Idling consumes fuel without getting you anywhere.
Plan Your Routes
Plan your routes to avoid stop-and-go traffic and congested areas. This can significantly improve your fuel efficiency. Use navigation apps to find the most efficient routes.
Consider Fuel Additives
Some fuel additives can help improve fuel efficiency by cleaning your fuel injectors and improving combustion. However, it’s important to choose reputable brands and follow the instructions carefully.
Conclusion
Knowing the fuel tank capacity of your 2017 Toyota Corolla – typically 13.2 gallons for most models and 13.7 gallons for the Corolla iM – is fundamental to responsible vehicle ownership. Understanding how this capacity, combined with the Corolla’s excellent fuel efficiency, translates into real-world driving range empowers you to plan trips effectively, budget for fuel costs, and avoid the inconvenience of running out of gas. By adopting fuel-efficient driving habits and maintaining your vehicle properly, you can further maximize your Corolla’s range and enjoy its reliability and practicality to the fullest. The 2017 Toyota Corolla is more than just a car; it’s a dependable partner for your daily commutes and longer journeys, and knowing its fuel capacity is key to unlocking its full potential.
What is the fuel tank capacity of a 2017 Toyota Corolla?
The 2017 Toyota Corolla has a fuel tank capacity of 13.2 gallons. This means that you can fill the tank with up to 13.2 gallons of gasoline when it’s completely empty. Knowing this capacity is important for planning road trips and budgeting for fuel costs, as it allows you to estimate how far you can travel on a full tank.
This fuel tank size is consistent across all trim levels of the 2017 Toyota Corolla, including the L, LE, LE Eco, SE, and XLE models. It’s a standard size for compact sedans in its class, offering a good balance between fuel efficiency and the ability to travel reasonable distances between fill-ups.
How far can I drive on a full tank of gas in a 2017 Toyota Corolla?
The driving range on a full tank of gas in a 2017 Toyota Corolla depends on several factors, including your driving habits, road conditions, and the specific trim level. However, we can estimate an average range based on the EPA fuel economy ratings. The EPA estimates for the 2017 Corolla range from 28-30 MPG in the city and 36-40 MPG on the highway, depending on the model.
Using the 13.2-gallon fuel tank capacity, you can estimate a range of approximately 370 to 400 miles in the city and 475 to 530 miles on the highway. Keep in mind that these are just estimates, and your actual range may vary. Factors like aggressive driving, carrying heavy loads, and using air conditioning can all reduce fuel economy.
Does the trim level of a 2017 Toyota Corolla affect its fuel tank capacity?
No, the trim level of a 2017 Toyota Corolla does not affect its fuel tank capacity. Whether you own the base L model, the LE, the sporty SE, the luxurious XLE, or the fuel-efficient LE Eco, all versions of the 2017 Corolla share the same 13.2-gallon fuel tank. This means you don’t need to worry about tank size influencing your choice between trim levels.
The differences between the trim levels primarily concern features, aesthetics, and minor performance variations, but the core fuel system, including the tank size, remains consistent. Fuel efficiency can slightly vary based on engine tuning and aerodynamic features specific to certain trims like the LE Eco.
What type of fuel is recommended for a 2017 Toyota Corolla?
Toyota recommends using regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 for the 2017 Toyota Corolla. Using gasoline with a higher octane rating than recommended will not improve performance or fuel economy. The engine is designed to run optimally with the specified grade of fuel.
Using fuel with a lower octane rating than recommended could potentially damage the engine over time. Sticking to the manufacturer’s recommendation ensures the engine operates efficiently and reliably. Check your owner’s manual for the most accurate and up-to-date information on fuel recommendations for your specific vehicle.
How can I improve the fuel efficiency of my 2017 Toyota Corolla?
Several driving habits and maintenance practices can improve the fuel efficiency of your 2017 Toyota Corolla. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking, maintain a steady speed, and anticipate traffic flow to minimize unnecessary stops and starts. Regularly check and maintain proper tire inflation, as underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel economy.
Furthermore, ensure your vehicle undergoes regular maintenance, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug inspections. These maintenance tasks help keep the engine running efficiently and optimize fuel consumption. Reduce unnecessary weight in your car and avoid idling for extended periods to further improve fuel economy.
Where can I find the fuel tank capacity information for my 2017 Toyota Corolla?
The fuel tank capacity information for your 2017 Toyota Corolla can be found in several places. The primary source is the owner’s manual, which contains detailed specifications for your vehicle, including the fuel tank capacity, recommended fuel type, and other important information. The owner’s manual is usually located in the glove compartment.
You can also find this information online through Toyota’s official website or other reputable automotive resources. Search for “2017 Toyota Corolla specifications” to find a list of technical details, including the fuel tank capacity. Additionally, a sticker on the inside of the fuel filler door may also display the recommended fuel type, though it might not explicitly state the tank capacity.
What are some signs that my 2017 Toyota Corolla’s fuel tank might be leaking?
Several signs may indicate a fuel tank leak in your 2017 Toyota Corolla. A strong smell of gasoline, especially near the vehicle, is a primary indicator. You might also notice fuel puddles or stains under the car, particularly after it has been parked for a while. These are clear signs that fuel is escaping from the tank.
A decrease in fuel efficiency, requiring more frequent trips to the gas station, could also suggest a leak. Furthermore, the check engine light might illuminate, indicating a problem with the fuel system. If you observe any of these signs, it’s crucial to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible to address the leak and prevent potential hazards.