Fuel gauge question

[kingman]

Hi

On saturday when l started my 02 the gauge showed empty and the message center read "low fuel" Now l realized that l was low but l thought l had at least 4 gallons left and was going to get it fueled up.

So just to be safe l picked up a gallon and a half in a gas can and added it to the tank.

The next day l started it to take it for a fill up and the gauge now read 1/4 tank and no message. Keep in mind that the interior of my garage was very hot (weather) and very humid.

Should l be concerned or is this just one of those things, l still have the GMPP extended warranty.

Thanks

Alan

 

[MsSchroder]

It could be the dreaded fuel gauge problem.
I would keep a close eye on it, and take it to the dealer for a fix before the warranty runs out, if it happens again.

 

[Vette_Dreaming]

I have had the Low Fuel warning when I start up a few times. I am usually on my way to fill up any way but I have noticed that as I drive the gauge will creep back up to about an eighth of a tank by the time I get to the station (about a mile).

 

[napacruzerC5]

You should search for more posts on this and other forums regarding this problem.

A common "fix" has been using a fuel additive like Chevron's Techron Concentrate and Fuel Injector Cleaner available at most automotive stores. Also only use a "top tier" gasoline. Again Chevron would be a good choice; others such as Shell and Unocal are good too. The top tier gasolines supposedly have a better mix and quantity of detergents.

The problem seems to stem from the sulfur content of a given fuel which will mess up the fuel sender gauge. I also try not to put away the vette with anything less than 1/3 tank for more than a day. Since my vette is usually a week-end driver I make sure that on Sunday night that I go out for a short drive and fill-up before putting her to bed. Gets me ready to face the week w/o the vette too

There is another post on this specific forum addressing your problem.

 

[vetty 1]

techron is the answer

 

[Patrick]

Just some points of clarification for folks who may be reading this thread and might not be familiar with the terms. (Hello, first time Corvette owners!) Here's a link explaining what Top Tier Gasoline is, with a link at the bottom of page to find retailers who sell it.

Techron is an additive for the fuel system made by Chevron. Many of the Top Tier Gasoline brands have techron, or their version of techron, already added. But you can also purchase Techron at most auto parts stores, Walmart and other stores which feature a comprehensive automotive section.

On my old Z06, I had one occasion where the fuel gauge gave me a false warning about being low on fuel (it had, in fact, just under half a tank.) Techron will help clean the fuel gauge sensors.


-Patrick

 

[kingman]

Only Shell and Texaco ???

HI

I'm real sorry to hear that these are the only two retaiters in my area that meet the standard.

New Jersey !!!!!!!!!!!

So l have to say good bye to Exxon and Valero

Alan

 

[melsy]

Having been through this at least half a dozen times on my '03 Z06, the fix is to get it to the dealer and have it repaired under warranty/TSB's. GM even extended my warranty on the fuel system. This is just a fact of life for us and many other car owner's. Techron may provide a temporary repair. Go to the dealer and get in the sytem is my experience.;squint:

 

[DDLS3]

kingman,

It may be that there is a problem or maybe not. Both my 02 and my wifes 05 Vue have done this from time to time. My therory is that when the tank is that low the volume of fuel is greatly affected by temperature. When your engine is running excess fuel is returned to the tank somewhat heating the remainder in the tank. When your car sets overnight the fuel cools and shrinks somewhat causing the low fuel indication.

Fluxtuation in level is very common in bulk storage tanks do to temperature changes and must be taken into account when performing inventory checks. Just my .02 worth.

Dale