Volkswagen Repair: fuel gage not working, fuel level sender, electrical testing

Question
I have 1998 Passat and the fuel gage does not work is there any quick tips for trouble shooting the problem?  Where do I look to find problem or is this a area for dealer reapir?

Answer
Well I can tell you what the possible problems are. Number one cause is the fuel level sender, some times the wiring and rarely the cluster gauge. Some times coolant in the wiring. If I was not a VW tech then I would take this to the dealer. Special tools are required and electrical testing is needed. The level sensor is the most likely cause and labor is around $150-$300 plus the part. Good luck.