Fuel Level Gauge - Up to 2002.5 Model Year

The sender is a float operated rotary potentiometer which provides a variable resistance to earth for the output from the gauge. Movement of the sender unit float arm varies the electrical resistance across the sender unit, so the voltage of the control signal and the resultant deflection of the gauge pointer are directly related to the level of fuel in the tank. When the sender float is at its lowest point, indicating an empty fuel tank, the resistance to earth is at its greatest.

The measured resistance is processed by the instrument pack to implement an anti-slosh function. This monitors the signal and updates the fuel gauge pointer position at regular intervals. This prevents constant needle movement caused by fuel movement in the tank due to cornering or braking.

A warning lamp is located in the face of the fuel gauge and illuminates when the fuel level is at or below 2.2 gallons (10 litres).

The fuel level sender signal is converted into a CAN message by the instrument pack as a direct interpretation of the fuel tank contents in litres. The ECM uses the CAN message to suspend OBD misfire detection when the fuel level is below 15% capacity.