Why Doesn't the Fuel Gauge Show Full After Refueling?
2 Answers
After refueling, the fuel gauge does not show full because the fuel tank is divided into two parts: a main tank and a secondary tank. Each part has its own fuel level sensor, and the two sensors are connected in series. The fuel gauge displays the average value of the remaining fuel in both parts. Here are some tips related to car refueling: 1. Do not wait until the warning light comes on to refuel: Since the fuel pump is located inside the fuel tank and relies on gasoline for cooling and lubrication, insufficient fuel can hinder the pump's normal operation and reduce its lifespan. 2. It is not recommended to fill the tank completely: Gasoline expands when heated and evaporates into gasoline vapor under high summer temperatures, requiring space to accommodate it. If the tank is filled to the brim without any space, gasoline vapor or even liquid gasoline may enter the carbon canister for storage, which is not only wasteful but also pollutes the environment. 3. Indicator deviation: After routine battery replacement, fuel filter changes, or even after parking overnight, you may notice that the fuel gauge needle is lower than the previously displayed position when starting the vehicle again, leading you to think it's a malfunction. When the temperature drops and the fuel tank is opened, pressure is released, causing the fuel level to drop, so such display deviations are normal. However, the deviation generally does not exceed the width of one needle.
Last time I refueled, I encountered the same issue. The fuel gauge needle got stuck at 3/4 right after filling up. Upon inspection, I found the fuel cap wasn't tightened properly, allowing gasoline vapors to escape and affect the fuel level sensor. After tightening the cap, it took about two kilometers of driving to return to normal. If it still doesn't recover, it's likely that the fuel float is stuck or the fuel level sensor is clogged with sludge. The sensors on the fuel pump assembly of older cars are most prone to problems, requiring the fuel tank to be removed for repairs. However, some smart car systems allow for a forced calibration by long-pressing the dashboard reset button. Try this before heading to the repair shop to save some money.