Does the gauge replect the actual fuel level at all? part 2 to this question, whats the best way to calculate gas mileage without running the tank dry?

 

From what I can tell, my gauge at 3/4 is actually a little under half a tank. If you look under the car you'll see that the tank is in a funky V shape, so the lower the level is the faster it falls. I have never had my car under a quarter of a tank, and I never plan to...

The best way to calculate accurate gas mileage is to keep a written log. Fill the car up and note the mileage. When you need to fill up again, just note the mileage and take the difference when you're filling up. Then divide that number by the amount of gas you just put in and you'll get your mpg. A lot more accurate than trying to read the gauge.

 

Don't allow the gauge to go below 1/4, because you are getting close to fumes..... I know with mine when I hit a quarter, I have about 3-4 gallons left....

 

i let mine get to just about 1/4 the first week i had it. that was kinda a long walk.

 

I ALWAYS reset the trip meter when I fill up.....I've only forgotten to do this once or twice in 2 years with my car. The gas gauge on its own is really inaccurate, so I find that using both what the gauge says, and how far I've traveled are a more accurate measure of how much gas is in the tank. I've driven about 4 or 5 times with the "Check Gauges" light on telling me I'm low on gas, but fortunately I've always been close to home and/or a gas station!! I'm not looking forward to the day I over-estimate the capacity of the fuel system!

 

Another and more important reason for not running out of gas is that it's the gas that cools the fuel pump. If and when you run xtra low or out of gas the pump will keep running and overheat if you don't turn off the ignition pretty quick.

 

i get 220-240 on a FULL tank of gas. i go 120 miles and the gas gauge still points to full. when it gets to 1/4 tank you better find gas within 10-20 or you will be walking