markgs4

Hi all,

For the last week, my fuel gauge has been acting up and Im not sure what it could be attributed to. One day its reading a half a tank, the next day its reading empty with the light on....or it will go from 1/4 full to 1/2 full the next day. This morning the meter was at 1/2 tank when I turned the car on, then I watched it drop all the way down to empty with the fuel light coming on. I went to fill her up, and it only let me put about $25 worth which we all know isnt a full tank. I turned the car on, and the needle went up to to full tank, then dropped and settled at 3/4.

Im guessing there is more fuel in there than its actually showing on the gauge. Do I have a bad fuel gauge? Or is it related to the fuel pump? Im at 107k miles right now if that matters.

Thanks in advance for the help....

Chpsk8

Sounds like a loose ground somewhere, most likely on the float for the tank. It's not the pump, so no worries there.
One workaround is to use your trip meter to determine when you are getting close to running out.

markgs4

So the problem could be within the fuel tank itself? If so, how would I (or a mechanic) be able to get in there to re-ground the float?

markgs4

Mods....maybe this might get more exposure in the maintenance section? Feel free to move it if so. Thanks.

Chpsk8

The connection is probably outside of the tank. I'm not a Lexus expert, but this is a common symptom of a loose ground on other cars. Find the top of the gas tank, thats where the connection will be. Check it for continuitey.

markgs4

Chpsk8, thanks for your replies I'll try that as a start, and if nothing else, will take the car in to the mechanic this week. Thanks again..