Auto Parts: Fuel gauge, 2001 Kia Optima, fuel gauge

Question
Hi Antonio,

I recently bought a car Kia Optima 01. I was hasty to buy a 2nd hand car in desperate measures so wasn't able to check inspect everything. Come 2nd week of driving it, I notice that the gas gauge is not properly working. I drove about 30miles and there was drastic drop on the gauge. Whenever I fill up the gas tank, it stops as if the tank is full but when I turn on the engine, the gauge does not even reach to Full level.

What might be the cause of this problem? Also, whenever I step on the gas, it makes that sound as if the engine is having a hard time operating.

I might have had a bad decision by not having it checked by a mechanic but since I have the burden now I might as well take care of it before it creates more problem for me..

Thanks for all the help!

Best regards,
Paul

Answer
Hi Paul,

The sound you describe, sounds to me like there may be a blockage in the fuel system somewhere, possibly the filter or one of the fuel lines,anything could have caused the blockage, including some bad gas that built up over time.  I would recommend checking that first, and repairing and replacing anything that has been effected.

As for your gauge.  There are many reasons for this problem, one of the most common is that the gauge has failed.  The gauge would need to be replaced, however blockages in fuel systems, like what you described to me in your post, can also cause a gauge to read incorrectly.  So again i would check for blockage or flow issues before investing in a new gauge.

Please let me know how you make out.

Let me know if i can be of more assistance.

Good Luck

Thank You