Gas gauge on the cluster panel is not accurate

PCULQUI

MEMBER
1999 BUICK REGAL
3.8L
V6
2WD
AUTOMATIC
125,000 MILES

The "pendulum" inside the gas tank needs replacement because it's off a bit. There are times when I refill at 228 miles driven and other times at 157 miles driven. My reasoning is if it can hold off at 228 miles (14 gallons), when it beeps at 157 miles, I should ignore it until it reaches 228 miles (14 gallons) If my gas tank can hold 14 gallons (228 miles) then at 157 miles it's probably only 11 or 12 gallons. Giving me an incorrect warning to refill at 157 miles driven.
What's your opinion on this matter?

3 Replies

KASEKENNY

MECHANIC
18,907 POSTS

It is possible that the level sensor is off but I am not sure you are looking at this the right way. I attached the info about this for your review. The PCM sends a message to the cluster to display the proper fuel level. However, the fuel warning goes off at a set mileage to empty. This means it may go off after you have driven 228, 200, or 157 miles driven. This all depends on how you are driving and the fuel economy you are getting. Meaning if you are driving slower and light foot, you will get more mileage out of a tank of fuel then driving faster and heavy footed.

Does that make sense?

Image (Click to make bigger)

SPONSORED LINKS

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

No

Wednesday, December 4th, 2019 AT 4:01 PM

PCULQUI

MEMBER
354 POSTS

I see. This makes alot of sense. Where is this level sensor located and is it easy to get to. How much will be the cost for a replacement part.

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

No

Thursday, December 5th, 2019 AT 6:25 AM

KASEKENNY

MECHANIC
18,907 POSTS

This is part of the fuel pump in the tank. It appears the price ranges but I would expect the part to be around $200.00. It appears there is a cheaper option but I would shop around a little bit and see what you feel comfortable with.

Images (Click to make bigger)