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2306 El Camino Real Redwood City, CA 94063
(650) 365-4145
Faulty fuel gauges are very common in MINIs. As a MINI owner, it’s important to keep this in mind. Your fuel gauge gives you important information every time you get behind the wheel. If your fuel gauge isn’t working properly, it could leave you stranded on the side of the road, so it’s important for your safety that your fuel gauge is giving you an accurate reading.
Symptoms of a Faulty Fuel Gauge
It’s important to keep an eye out for any inconsistencies in the way your fuel gauge behaves. Below are some of the most common symptoms of a faulty fuel gauge.
Your gauge gives inconsistent readings
If your gauge is giving you inconsistent readings, it can lead to you running out of fuel. It’s easy to notice if the needle is jumping up and down erratically, but the inconsistencies might be a little more subtle than that. Keep an eye out for the needle changing position when you turn your car on and off. You need your gauge to give you correct information, so make sure that it is not jumping up and down randomly.
Your gauge is stuck
If the needle on your fuel gauge gets stuck, it could be a sign your fuel gauge is receiving incorrect signals from the fuel sending unit. If this is happening, it’s a sign your fuel gauge needs to be serviced.
Your check engine light is on
If your car is experiencing an issue with the fuel gauge, the computer may turn on the check engine light. If your check engine light is on, it’s important you take it to a mechanic. They have equipment that allows them to access your MINI’s computer. This lets them see what problem caused the light to come on.
Causes of a Faulty Fuel Gauge
There are a few things that can cause your MINI’s fuel gauge to malfunction. These issues can cause other problems as well, so it’s important to have them diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible.
Defective Fuel Sending Unit
The most common cause of the fuel gauge giving inaccurate readings is a defective fuel sending unit. The fuel sending unit keeps track of the level of fuel in the tank and sends that information to your MINI’s computer and the fuel gauge. If it’s malfunctioning, your fuel sending unit will send bad signals to the fuel gauge. This can cause the fuel gauge to get stuck or to jump up or down randomly.
Worn Out Wiring
An electrical problem could also be the cause of a faulty fuel gauge. Corroded and worn wiring interferes with the signal the fuel sending unit sends to the fuel gauge. The wiring will most likely need to be replaced if this is your problem.
What should I do?
If you think your MINI’s fuel gauge is having problems, it’s important you take it to a certified mechanic. Without the proper tools, it will be very hard to diagnose and fix these problems. A certified mechanic who specializes in repairing European cars will have the tools and knowledge needed to fix the problems that can cause your fuel gauge to fail. Without a functioning fuel gauge, you will have no way of knowing how much fuel you actually have at any given moment. Especially for longer trips, this can be hazardous to your safety. You don’t want to be left stranded on the side of the road with an empty gas tank, afterall.
We Will Help!
At Cerrone’s European, we specialize in 
the repair and maintenance of European cars. Our shop has been open for over 40 years now, and we’re proud to be a staple in the Redwood City, CA community. Cerrone’s European is a family owned and operated repair shop. You can be sure your MINI is in good hands when you have it serviced or repaired by our professionals. Working on your European car is our passion.
MINIs often have trouble with their fuel gauges. With our state-of-the-art equipment and decades of experience, we can get your MINI back on the road and problem-free. If you are worried your fuel gauge is giving you an inaccurate reading, please call us today to schedule an appointment.