Q: Gas gauge not working

asked by on February 05, 2016

My gas gauge does not work.

Electric Problems Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hello, the operation of the fuel gauge is like this. The fuel level sensor receives a steady voltage input, and as the level changes the voltage output of the fuel level sensor change. The fuel gauge in the dash receives this signal and the gauge in the dash displays the fuel level. To see what has failed in the system, electrical testing must be performed. You may need the aid of a mechanic to perform electrical testing to see if it is the fuel level sensor, the fuel level gauge or a wiring concern.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Smoke coming from engine
Hello. There are two different types of fluid that would cause smoke to come out from the front of your car. If oil is leaking down from the valve cover gasket or oil filter, and onto the exhaust, this will...
car shaking after botched repair
If you are having the problem after the mentioned repairs were done, and not before, then either they made a mistake or one of the tires is at fault. They rotated your tires for you when they put on the...
My car idles roughly and wants to die when I give it gas what could this be?
With this kind of engine issue, I would imagine that your Check Engine Light (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/check-engine-light-is-on-inspection) is on, indicating that the built in diagnostics have logged and error and a diagnostic trouble code. It will be important to know these codes...
Car not starting up sometimes - 1998 Toyota Land Cruiser
You have a faulty, possibly intermittent, fuel system and/or ignition system problem(s). Due to the age of the vehicle, you could indeed have a combination of problems. For example, fuel injectors (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/fuel-injector-replacement) will often get plugged given enough time and...
A small crack on passenger side of windsheild will it pass inspection
I am not quite too sure of the West Virginia inspection regulations and it would be difficult to tell without actually seeing the window. However, in Missouri, lets say that you have a very dirty windshield and you spray the...
My engine makes a humming noise that sounds sort of computerized, and may be power steering or transmission related.
Hi there. The noise that you are hearing could be the power steering pump (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/power-steering-pump-replacement) whining, the alternator (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/alternator-replacement) bearing failing, or the transmission gear train has too much gear lash. Check the engine to see if there are any...
Car cranks and turns but won't start 1996 Honda Prelude
Hello - I think there is a pretty good chance that your engine has seized (https://www.yourmechanic.com/question/what-does-the-oil-pressure-low-stop-engine-message-mean) due to a lack of oil. I suspect there is little compression due to piston rings seizing in the cylinder, and there is bearing...
Front passenger door lock is frozen.
Hi there. The door lock cylinder and actuator is not working and needs replaced. You can remove the door panel with the door shut, it just will be a little harder with the lack of space. If you need the...
Downsizing for winter tires
Even though the rims are different sizes the two tires are very close in size for height and width and will not cause any issues using them. You do not need to have an alignment since this is for the...

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Ford F-450
The The 2012 Ford F-450 is a serious truck with major towing and hauling capacity. What it lacks in gas mileage, it more than makes up for in durability, suspension, power, and torque. Plus, with a six-speed shiftable automatic transmission,...
2012 Ford Fusion vs. 2012 Toyota Camry: Which Should I Buy?
While most people believe that domestic sedans just cannot compete with the Honda Accord and the Toyota Camry, the industry leaders, that is not necessarily true. Yes, there are some metrics where the Camry just excels, however the Ford Fusion...
The Best Used Cars to Buy If You're a General Contractor
If If you're a general contractor, you probably aren’t in the market for a used car. More likely, you’re looking for a pickup truck, because you need to haul equipment and supplies to various job sites. Most contractors will likely...