Instruments - Fuel Gauge Reads Empty With Fuel In Tank
90 08 102016565/2
November 5, 2008. Supersedes Technical Service Bulletin Group 90 number 07-09 dated November 9, 2007 for reasons listed below.
Vehicle Information
Condition
90 Fuel gauge reads empty and "Low fuel level" warning symbol is displayed when tank is not empty
After switching on the ignition, the fuel gauge stays on empty, and the "Low fuel level" warning light is displayed in the driver information display of the instrument cluster, but the fuel tank has fuel in it.
After a short trip and switching the ignition off and back on, the warning light goes out and the fuel gauge reads normal.
Technical Background
Condition occurs with instrument clusters that have software level 0300 and fuel gauge sending units with only one potentiometer slip contact. A dirt particle lodges itself between the slip contact and potentiometer track. This results in the fuel gauge staying on empty and the "Low fuel level" warning light displayed in the driver information display of the instrument cluster, although there is fuel in the tank.
If this condition lasts longer than 20 seconds, DTC 00771 (Sender for fuel gauge -G-, open/short circuit to B+) is logged in the fault memory of the instrument cluster. After a short journey, the dirt is normally flushed away and the correct fuel level is read again. The fuel level is also shown correctly again after switching the ignition off and on.
Production Solution
New software in the instrument cluster (J285) resolved the problem.
Service
1. Prior to beginning the SVM process, insert a USB memory stick into the VAS 505X tester to capture the diagnostic log electronically.
2. Update the instrument cluster (J285) using SVM action code as listed in the table below if necessary.
Tip:
The SVM Process must be completed in its entirety so the database receives the update confirmation response. A warranty claim may not be reimbursed if there is no confirmation response to support the claim.
For further SVM update instructions and troubleshooting, please refer to the SVM Operating Manual; ElsaWeb TSB 2011732.
Warranty
When procedure applies to vehicles under warranty, use the following:
WIN
SAGA
The following Technical Service Bulletin will be necessary to complete this procedure:
- 2011732; Software Version Management (SVM) Operating Manual
Additional Information
All part and service references provided in this TSB are subject to change and/or removal. Always check with your Parts Dept. and service manuals for the latest information.