Signs You May Need Your Fuel Gauge Repaired Or Replaced
Your fuel gauge is an extremely important component of your vehicle. The gauge helps you to determine how much fuel you have in the tank. This helps you determine whether you can drive to work or to school and when you may need to stop to fill up your tank. However, your fuel gauge can start to malfunction and give faulty readings. The most common reason this happens is that there is a problem with the fuel-sending unit, providing the gauge with a faulty reading. Here are some of the key signs that your fuel-sending unit or your fuel gauge may need to be repaired or replaced.
Your Fuel Gauge Is Stuck on Full or Empty
One of the tell-tale signs that you may need your fuel gauge repaired or replaced is having a fuel gauge that is stuck on either full or empty. This can happen because the gauge itself is broken or because the fuel-sending unit is completely broken, giving off incorrect readings. If your fuel gauge is stuck, it will not move regardless of whether you just filled up your gas tank or whether you have driven hundreds of miles and your tank should be near empty.
Your Fuel Gauge Moves Erratically
Another sign that you may be in need of fuel gauge services is a fuel gauge that moves erratically. Your gauge may be near full and then it may jump to halfway full or a quarter of the tank full. If your fuel gauge moves erratically, it is most likely a sign that your fuel-sending unit is starting to malfunction, and is not adjusting or moving as the fuel in your tank decreases.
Your Fuel Light Comes On When It Shouldn't
The final sign that you may need fuel gauge services is a fuel light that comes on when it should not. This is most likely caused by an electrical issue with your fuel gauge or a shortage in your fuel gauge. It is also important to note that in some newer cars, your check engine light may also come on if your fuel gauge system is experiencing issues. If you see your fuel light and your check engine light illuminate at the same time, you are in need of fuel gauge services.
If you notice that your fuel gauge is stuck on full or empty, if the fuel gauge is moving erratically, or if your fuel light comes on when it should not, you are in need of fuel gauge services. This likely includes replacing the fuel gauge or repairing or replacing the fuel-sending unit. Reach out to a fuel gauge service to have your vehicle inspected to determine why your fuel gauge may not be acting correctly.
