Q: Gas gauge not registering fuel level

asked by on September 07, 2016

I recently noticed that the fuel gauge had not dropped to the expected level after driving 300 miles. I stopped to refuel and that was so fortunate because the tank was almost empty. I called the dealership and they called back a week later. They had me bring in the car (had to drive to another city). They did give me a loaner car while examining mine and four days later reported to me that it was an issue with my make/model cars. Evidently there is something in the tank causing the problem and the whole tank needs to be replaced, they said. However, they continued to explain that there were no available replacements tanks. They said it would be more than a month’s wait until one became available before they could install a new one. While I am waiting “impatiently!” could you please tell me if you know of a different solution, instead of my having to wait on a new tank?

Hi there, and thanks for asking about the problem with your 2016 Lexus RX450H. This doesn’t sound like a tank problem, but rather the scenario where the tank includes 2 fuel gauge sensors, and 2 fuel pumps - a fairly common practice these days. The fuel level readings between the 2 fuel level sensors are essentially "averaged" for what is displayed on the dash. It might be worth asking the dealer about this to get a more precise answer. Replacing the whole tank assembly is likely overkill.

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