how do I fix the broken gas gage on my 2002 chevy ventura?

Question

my gas gage-reads ful then drops to empty. i start my an its full then five minutes empty. i never know how much gas i have. itsucks.

Answer 1

Usually what is wrong with these things is the internal float and resistor board the float rides up and down on. What you need to do is to diagnose first. This involves obtaining the circuit diagram; I would go to a dealer and ask for one as we used to give them out for nothing. Failing getting one, I'm sure the guys in the back will help you if you ask respectfully. What you are looking for is the two wires that go to the fuel sensor. To check the system, you simply unplug the huge connector directly under the left passenger seat under the van. The first thing to look at is if there is a bunch of corrosion inside here as if there is you have probably found your problem. This has a ton of wires going to it; this explains the need for the diagram. Once unplugged, turn the ignition key on and let the system do its self check and then look at the gas gauge. It should stay way over full. Still leaving the ignition on, install a jumper wire between the two connectors that lead back into the van. I would advise being careful which connections you touch as you can burn things out. With the electrical diagram and jumpering these together, the gas gauge should come back to empty. If this is what happens, the fuel sender is bitched inside the tank. Sometimes if you leave things connected and the ignition on, shake the living hell out of the van in the sideways motion and observe the gas guage. If it starts jumping all over or stays way over full it is the same problem. If you get nothing from this, your problem is up in the electronics in the dash.

Answer 2

If your gauge is malfunctioning you will need to replace it. rarely can they be repaired to work for any length of time. If your fortunate enough that your fuel tank is accessible without completely removing from under the vehicle it will be relatively easy. Check to see if you have access either under your back seat cushion or in your trunk. If not you will have to remove the tank not an easy process.

Answer 3

try filling the tank COMPLETLY and then force for some days and then fill up the tank Divide # of miles with the aid of how many gallons it took to fill up the tank. then you truly can shop track of how many miles you have pushed ,you would be attentive to how many gallons you have left.