Topic: Comically inaccurate fuel gauge

[Rockchops]

As I was driving home from work today my fuel gauge went from about 3/8 to 1/16 depending on angle and engine/fuel load. Is this normal? I have to imagine no mods have been made to the fuel system in my car but holy crap...that's a 100 highway mile variance easily. The low fuel light never went on and 10.3 went into the tank.

This is one of those silly things that gives a car character, but id rather not be stranded with 1/4 tank indicated.


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[Sol Asylum]

What year is your car?  I know some of the early cars got a software update that corrected that problem.

[Sly Bob]

And it's recommended that you use the GM fuel treatment which is rebranded "Techron" a few times a year to prevent corrosion and fuel sludge from gumming up your sending unit.

[Sly Bob]

Here's the tsb that SA is talking about. You might want to verify that your car had this done if it applies to you.
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#08-06-04-013: Fuel Gauge Fluctuates on Acceleration or Sharp Turns, Low Fuel Light Illuminated (Reprogram I/P and ECM) - (Mar 4, 2008)
Subject:    Fuel Gauge Fluctuates On Acceleration or Sharp Turns, Low Fuel Light Illuminated (Reprogram I/P and ECM)

Models:    2006-2007 Pontiac Solstice
2007 Saturn Sky
2007 Daewoo G2X
Condition
Some customers may comment on fuel gauge fluctuation on acceleration or sharp turns when their fuel gauge is at or below 1/4 tank level or above 3/4 level. The needle may fluctuate between 1/8 and empty and eventually turn the low fuel light on. The needle will return to proper level after a few seconds.

Correction
DO NOT replace the fuel tank module or the fuel level sensor.

Technicians are to reprogram the I/P and ECM simultaneously using Sequential Programming.

[Rockchops]

Thanks guys, I did do a search and it seems like something that some others experienced but not to this extent/severity and didn't think much of it. Thanks for the TSB!


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[elff]

this reminded me of the ol VW speedometer.
It would show you were doing somewhere between 10mph and 80mph