Fuel Gauge: Description and Operation

NOTE: The fuel gauge instrument cluster gauge amplifier, and engine coolant temperature gauge are calibrated to each other at the manufacturing facility and must all be replaced if any one is damaged.

The fuel level indication system is a magnetic-type indication system, which consists of:
- fuel level sensor (part of the fuel pump module).
- instrument cluster gauge amplifier.
- fuel gauge/temperature assembly.

FUEL GAUGE

CAUTION: Do not remove magnetic gauge pointers; the gauge cannot be recalibrated.

- The magnetic fuel gauge consists of four primary coils, one of which is wound at a 90-degree angle to the other three.
- The coils form a magnetic field which varies in direction according to the variable resistance of the fuel level sensor.
- A primary magnet, to which a shaft and pointer are attached, rotates to align to this primary field, resulting in pointer position.
- The bobbin/coil assembly is pressed into a metal housing which has two holes for dial mounting.

The fuel level sensor (part of the fuel pump module) changes resistance according to the level of fuel in the fuel tank, which varies the current flow through the gauge. The pointer position varies proportionately to the current flow.

The pointer of the magnetic gauge remains in relatively the same position when the ignition switch is turned to OFF.

There is no adjustment, calibration or maintenance required for the fuel gauge.