You’re happily cruising in your Mini while knowing you have enough gas to get to your destination; when suddenly the low fuel light comes on, or even worse, your car starts to misfire. It’s annoying, right? Let’s talk about how you can know that your Mini’s fuel gauge is failing and what you should do to make sure that it does not leave you stranded on the road.

The Fuel Gauge and Its’ Function

The fuel gauge system consists of two main components: the sending unit, which is placed in the fuel tank, and the gauge, which is installed on your car’s dashboard. The sending unit receives the amount of fuel and transmits it to the gauge through an electrical impulse. When everything is in order, the gauge will show the user how much fuel is in the tank.

Common Indications of a Defective Fuel Gauge

• Inconsistent Readings: If your fuel gauge is erratic, jumping up and down, or not in sync with the actual fuel level, you have a problem. For example, the gauge may indicate that the tank is full when it is only half full, or it can read half full and immediately become empty.
• Stuck on Full or Empty: At other times, the gauge can become stuck and your tank will appear full or empty when in fact, it is not. This problem makes your fuel gauge unreliable.
• Fuel Light Flashing: If the fuel warning light illuminates, even if you have just filled your tank, or if it blinks erratically, then it means that there is a problem with the sending unit or the gauge. You should not continue driving with this light.

What Could Be Responsible For Fuel Gauge Problems?

• Faulty Sending Unit: One of the reasons your fuel gauge could malfunction is a sending unit issue. Over time, the components of the sending unit can wear out or corrode. This issue can make it give wrong readings.
• Wiring Issues: The wiring that links the sending unit to the gauge can get damaged or disconnected. This can lead to no signal or intermittent signals transmitted to the gauge.
• Bad Gauge: It is also possible for the gauge itself to fail. When the internal components of the gauge are worn out or damaged, the gauge may not be accurate in relaying fuel levels.
• Instrument Cluster Problems: There could be times when the problem is not situated in the fuel gauge or the sending unit, but in the instrument cluster. A problem with the cluster can cause several problems with the car; the fuel gauge is one of them.

How to Troubleshoot a Non-Working Fuel Gauge

• Check for Wiring Issues: The first thing to do is to look at the wiring for the fuel sender unit and the gauge to see whether it is loose or corroded. This task is not a DIY project, so you will need the assistance of a mechanic who understands Mini vehicles. The mechanic can check the wiring and connectors to make sure that all the relevant ones are not damaged.
• Inspect Sender Unit: Since your Mini’s fuel sender unit is one of the common causes of failure of the fuel gauge, you should have it checked and tested. If the float is not moving or is broken, the unit will need to be fixed or even a new float. This always involves having to take out the fuel tank to get access to the sender unit.
• Test the Gauge: If the wiring is okay and the sender unit is also good, the fuel gauge might be the culprit. A mechanic can check if the gauge is functioning properly or requires replacement.
• Replace Fuses: If the problem is due to a blown fuse, simply replacing the fuse should be enough to solve the issue. Always refer to your owner’s manual to find out where the fuses are situated and what type you should use.

Where Should You Fix Fuel Gauge Problems In Phoenix?

If you are experiencing problems with your fuel gauge or any other problem, don’t delay, bring your vehicle to us! At Tanner Motors, we can be your go-to repair shop, if you reside in and around Phoenix, AZ. We have been assisting drivers in the area since 1945. Book an appointment now to enjoy reliable maintenance and repair.