How do I fix an erratic gas gauge?

Answer by  thattractorguy (2970)

The fuel sending unit is going bad. On some cars you can access this part through the trunk of the floor, some cars you need to remove the fuel tank. Once you get the old sending unit out, replace with the new one and put it back together.

Answer by  worker2295 (33)

On most vehicles there are floats (like the floating thing in your toilet) on your fuel pump (if it's in the tank) or just in the gas tank itself. Sometimes you can locate the float and spray it down with brake cleaner. If that doesn't work you may be able to purchase just the float maybe the whole pump.

Answer by  dee73 (1062)

The fuel sending unit is going bad and you need to change it.You can find this part though the floor of the trunk or you will have to remove the fuel tank. On some of the older cars the gas gauge is a floater in the tank. Take the old gauge out and replace with new.

Answer by  Amber40 (24961)

Start by inspecting the wiring of the fuel gauge. Insure that the gauge has a good solid wiring and that all connections are secure. If there is no problems with the wiring then chances are you need a new sending unit.

Answer by  tkarlav (1502)

Check for a loose power or ground wire to the gage or at the pump. nine out of ten time that how this is caused if not replace the gage.

Answer by  jalucia (936)

Most of the time, in this situation, the problem is with the sender in the tank. Usually involves removing gas tank to replace. Process takes about a couple of hours.

Answer by  McCheese (1248)

Chances are that you have an older car, back when the gas guage is governed by a floating ball in the tank. The ball is connected to a cable that feeds through the fuel pump. You'll have to pull it out and snake another one in. Kits available.

Answer by  dee73 (1062)

You are able to find this gauge in the floor of the trunk. The gauge can be located in the tank also. This gauge is like the floater in you toilet.once you locate it,unscrew the gauge and place the new one.

Answer by  Amber40 (24961)

Well first thing is to make sure you have a solid ground for the system a loose wire may gauge strange behavior. Otherwise our gauge may need replaced.