You can, but it’s usually not worth the effort or risk. Junk car buyers factor fuel into their handling process. Siphoning gasoline is dangerous, messy, and illegal in some areas if done improperly. Most sellers leave the fuel and let the buyer deal with it.
Reasons to leave the gas:
- Siphoning requires proper equipment and safety precautions
- Gasoline fumes are flammable and toxic
- Improper storage of fuel is a fire hazard
- The value of a few gallons rarely justifies the effort
- Junk car buyers expect to drain fluids as part of the process
If you want to recover the fuel, use an approved hand pump and store the gasoline in a proper container. Never siphon by mouth or use makeshift tools. Follow local regulations for fuel storage.
A better approach: use up the gas before the car dies completely. If you know the car is heading to the junkyard soon, drive it down to nearly empty or transfer fuel while the car still runs.
For most people, leaving the gas is simpler. Focus on other preparation steps like removing personal items and gathering paperwork.
