Fuel Gauge not working

[tkajohns]

Hey Everyone, I have a 2001 Pontiac Grand Prix GT 3.8L, the fuel gauge just stopped working. I have to watch the tripometer to make sure that I dont run out of gas. It just happened out of nowhere. Any thoughts on what it could be. The gauge itself will float, but it mostly shows full all the time. I have filled the car up several times since it stopped. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

[BNaylor]

It's possible your fuel level sensor went out. When you turn ignition off does the gauge drop to below the empty mark? Another thing to check would be the electrical connector at the fuel pump assembly and make sure the ground is good. There is an access plate that can be removed inside the trunk right behind the back seat. Just remove layers of carpeting and you'll see it.

Welcome to the forum.

[Langning]

Originally Posted by bnaylor3400

When you turn ignition off does the gauge drop to below the empty mark?

Interestingly on my 2001 GT, when I turn off ignition both my fuel gauge & temp gauge stay at the actual reading (they don't go down to zero; my tach does go down to zero and speedometer is already zero). Once I turn on ignition, all the needles do work and reflect their actual readings.

On all of my other cars, all guages reset to zeros when ignition is off and because I only began to drive my GrandPrix the past year and my wife & I disagree what is normal or not...