The fuel gauge is reading empty even after filling it all the way up?

EMILYSDAD21

MEMBER
2006 FORD F-150
5.4L
V8
2WD
AUTOMATIC
130,000 MILES

Hello all, my truck's fuel gauge is reading empty even after filling it all the way up, I took it in and was told the yellow wire is damaged and is the reason it doesn't read. I didn't think to ask where exactly it is, I'm curious as to see what others say before I call to see and if it's a fix I could do myself? I have some knowledge of working on vehicles but electrical is new. I appreciate the help!

Wednesday, September 7th, 2022 AT 7:34 PM

3 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
110,052 POSTS

Hi,

There is a yellow wire with a white tracer that sends a fuel level signal between the sending unit in tank to the instrument panel.

I attached the pic below. By chance, did they give you an idea of where the wire was broken? For example, is it broken at the fuel-sending unit at the tank, under the vehicle, or at the instrument panel?

Let me know. Also, let me know if you have other questions.

Take care,

Joe

See pic below.

Image (Click to make bigger)

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Wednesday, September 7th, 2022 AT 8:32 PM

EMILYSDAD21

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Yes, they mentioned that the break is at the top of the fuel tank, and I need to know what gauge that yellow/white wire is so I can replace it.

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Thursday, September 8th, 2022 AT 9:39 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
110,052 POSTS

Hi,

Okay, that makes sense. As far as the gauge wire, I don't show that in the schematics of manuals. However, what I would suggest is to first remove the broken wire and take it to a parts store. They should be able to tell what it is.

If I had to guess, I would think it would be either a 14 gauge or 16 gauge.

Let me know.

Joe

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Thursday, September 8th, 2022 AT 6:38 PM