What is a fuel gauge? How to detect a fuel gauge malfunction? What are the symptoms and causes of a fuel gauge malfunction?
What is Fuel Gauge and how does it work?
Fuel gauge is a component of the fuel system that measures the fuel level in the tank. It can be displayed on the cluster’s instrument cluster. The fuel gauge is used to inform the driver when fuel is low and when it should be replenished.
Many vehicles have a mechanical fuel gauge. However, some vehicles also have digital ones. The most common divisions for mechanical gauges are E (empty), 1/4, 1/2, 3/4 (three quarters), 3/4 (three fourths), and F(full).
It is very easy to use the system. The level of fuel in the tank affects the movement of the float arm. The float arm moves up and down according to the level of fuel in the tank. The fuel gauge will also show F. This indicates that the tank is full. The fuel level drops and the float falls towards the ground. This reduces or increases the amount electrical current that is sent to the fuel gauge. The resistance change determines whether the fuel gauge drops from full to empty, or vice versa.
What are the symptoms of a Fuel Gauge Failure
Faulty fuel gauges do not impact engine performance but can cause drivers to not be able to see the fuel level in their tank, which could lead them to get stuck on the road. A faulty fuel tank floating is the most common reason for a false fuel gauge reading. When they fail, these two components often exhibit the same symptoms. When you fix malfunctions with your fuel gauge, it is important to also check the tank flotation.
The following symptoms are usually caused by a faulty fuel gauge:
Inconsistent Fuel Gauge Readings
Unsteady readings are the first sign that the fuel gauge has gone out of control. The fuel gauge may not function properly if the float inside the tank is damaged. The indicator’s numbers or the position of the pointer may suddenly shift or fall down. Sometimes, the indicator might work correctly.
This can be caused by mechanical failure. The vehicle’s vibrations can cause the float arms to become stuck at specific levels, or even straighten out. This causes the fuel gauge to not always work properly.
The Tank is Full, But the Hand Is Empty
A malfunctioning fuel gauge could cause the needle to display empty even though it is full. A fuel gauge that is not working properly can send a false signal. The cables or the float may become separated. This can cause the fuel gauge to cease working and interrupt the signal. Corroded wires could also reduce the voltage to fuel gauge.
The Fuel Gauge Always Shows Full
Faulty fuel gauges can make it impossible to fill up the tank at all. This could also be caused by the fuel float. The fuel gauge can be affected by a high voltage continuous current if the float resistor is damaged. Rarely, the pointer can become stuck because of a fault in the instrument cluster.
