What Causes the Fuel Consumption Display to Fluctuate Erratically?
1 Answers
Fluctuations in the car's fuel consumption display are primarily caused by significant changes in external temperature or when the vehicle's water temperature stabilizes. Under the influence of external factors, the computer-calculated fuel injection volume may vary considerably, leading to erratic jumps in the average fuel consumption gauge. Occasional minor fluctuations in the average fuel consumption are normal. However, if the fluctuations persist for an extended period, it is advisable to seek maintenance and inspection, as this situation may be caused by a fault in the car's dashboard wiring. Causes and Diagnostic Methods for Fuel Gauge Malfunctions: Fuel gauge issues: Malfunctions in the car's fuel gauge itself can cause the gauge to remain static or display inaccurately. The diagnostic method involves observing whether the fuel gauge needle fails to move approximately half a minute after turning on the ignition switch, or if it moves erratically or displays inaccurate measurements. Sensor malfunction: A faulty car sensor can cause the fuel gauge to remain static. The diagnostic method involves using a multimeter to measure the resistance of the fuel sensor's variable resistor by clamping the probes to its two terminals in R×1Ω mode. If the reading deviates from the standard value, the sensor is faulty. Dashboard coil short circuit: A short circuit in the car's dashboard coil can cause fuel gauge malfunctions. The diagnostic method involves measuring the voltage using a multimeter.