How to Troubleshoot a Fuel Gauge
You fill up your gas tank, you turn on the ignition, but the fuel gauge needle doesn't move. This sure sign of a problem can have numerous causes. Troubleshoot your car's fuel gauge before seeking the help of a mechanic.
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Instructions
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Ensure that all of the wire connections are clean, secure and corrosion-free.
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Check your fuel gauge fuse if the gauge's indicator stays on empty when your turn on the ignition. If the fuse is good, join the sending unit connector to ground. Replace the sending unit if the gauge indictor moves to the full line.
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Ground the terminal located on the back of the fuel gauge with a jumper wire if the indicator doesn't move. If it does move, consider replacing the wire between the fuel gauge and the sending unit. A poor ground is frequently responsible for fuel gauge problems.
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Release the wire that connects to the fuel tank's sending unit. Confirm that there's no worn insulation that would permit wire contact to the body or frame. A fuel gauge reading of full generally indicates a problem with the tank unit, not the wiring.
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Tips & Warnings
Consult a mechanic if you can't pinpoint the source of your fuel gauge's problem.
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Comments
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this is alot of help thank you will try this out.
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Suzanne Dupon
Oct 17, 2010
do anyone no wher the fuel sender is located in a saxo -
fordmustang1966
Nov 12, 2008
what if i take a wire that has a some what of a boot connection off the gas tank and put a 12 volt tester in it and connect the other end of the tester to the screw that is where the boot was connected? what does it mean if the gauge does not move and the light is real dim?
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lynnypooh2001
Sep 17, 2008
ok i can do all that with checking wires and fuses, but say i know i have a full tank of gas, and after a few seconds of turning on the vehical the gas gauge dropps almost empty. turn the vehical off and back on and it does it again. the check engine light is on? what could cause this? any help or advice would be greatful!
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lynnypooh2001
Sep 17, 2008
ok i can do all that with checking wires and fuses, but say i know i have a full tank of gas, and after a few seconds of turning on the vehical the gas gauge dropps almost empty. turn the vehical off and back on and it does it again. the check engine light is on? what could cause this? any help or advice would be greatful!
