GMC Sonoma fuel gauge malfunctioning, fluctuating between full and empty with inaccurate readings on GMC Sonoma

Submitted by oblloyd · Jun 23, 2025
Published by RepairPal

Problem overview

Some GMC Sonoma owners report experiencing issues with fluctuating fuel gauge readings, which can inaccurately display levels between full and empty. These problems may arise from internal faults in the distributor, a faulty fuel pump or sending unit, or issues within the instrument cluster. The erratic behavior of the fuel gauge can often be traced back to bad electrical connections between the gauge and the sending unit, problems with the Body Control Module (BCM), or a malfunctioning sending unit itself. To address these issues, owners are advised to check for loose or damaged electrical connections, consider replacing the sending unit if it is faulty, or repair or replace the instrument cluster if necessary. Repair costs can vary widely, ranging from as low as $10 for minor fixes to upwards of $800 for more complex repairs. Regular maintenance, including the use of fuel injector cleaners, is recommended to help maintain the fuel system's condition, but it is crucial to resolve the underlying issues to ensure accurate fuel level readings.

7 people reported this problem
5 comments
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GMC Sonoma vehicles with this problem

1 model year affected
Average mileage: 110,200 miles
(71,000 - 200,000)

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