Fuel Gauge Going Up And Down

I have a 2000 Chevy Cavalier and when the gas gets to 1/4 tank, the gauge likes to move around a lot. Is there a remedy for this? It's not a big deal because I always fill up my car after a certain amount of miles, but could this lead to bigger issues?

 

I don't think this problem will affect others. What you do is a good practice. However, it is still better to have it fixed because all measuring devices are important to a car.

 

Thanks, I'd rather be safe than sorry when it comes to the fuel. I think I'll take a look through the manual and see I can fix this myself.

 

I think that a good practice is to always keep the fuel above half a tank. That way, you don't have to worry about the fuel gauge being erratic, and if you have to go somewhere in a hurry, you will always have at least a half full gas tank. It also helps to keep the gas tank from getting water condensation in the tank; so it is especially important during the rainy season, or if you live someplace that has high humidity.
My old Ford Taurus gets grumbly with me if I let the gas get down to 1/4 tank, so I think it has something in there that only is a problem when I let it get low on fuel. I usually add a gas dryer, and then put more gas in, so it is around 1/2 tank, and then it is happier and seems to run better.

 

I would take the car To an auto electrician and they might be able to give you a solution and help you overcome the problem. If you're not able to get the help that you looking for then I recommend that you do a bit of research. Find out how many miles to the gallon your car consumes. And then once you figure out the average I would say that whenever you're filling up your car with gas that you take note of how much you put in and roughly estimate how many miles it will take you and once you've reached that number make sure you fill up. That way you always in the know and you won't be left without any gas.

 

Most likely it is corrosion to the electric contact,or a failed resistor.Now that you have stated "the gauge likes to move around a lot"...i am pretty sure its corrosion on the potentiometer or maybe a You might have to change the fuel level sender and yeah to answer your question,it really won't be a big problem.

 

Its hard to say exactly what this is. Could be the float in your tank is dirty and causes a misread. Definitely take it to a mechanic and have them determine what the problem truly is.

 

If there is a problem with the float,then you would have hassles while filling up gasoline.and since he says it moves around,it surely can't be a problem with the float,but maybe something wrong with the device connecting across it.