FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/BMW/X5/F15 (2014-2019)/how can I fix a fuel gauge that doesn't work in my BMW X5 F15 (2014-2019)

how can I fix a fuel gauge that doesn't work in my BMW X5 F15 (2014-2019)

BMW X5 F15 (2014-2019)

Severity: mediumDifficulty: medium2-4 hours
3 min read
478 words

Problem Statement

## Problem Statement The fuel gauge in a BMW X5 F15 (2014-2019) is not functioning correctly, leading to inaccurate fuel level readings.

Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Safety Warnings:**
  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems.
  • ⚠Allow the fuel system to depressurize before handling any fuel components.

Symptoms

  • •Fuel gauge needle remains at empty position
  • •Check fuel level warning light illuminated
  • •Erratic fuel gauge readings
  • •Inability to fill the tank completely (fuel spills back)
  • •Possible fuel range display showing incorrect mileage

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan the vehicle using an OBD-II scanner to check for related error codes.
  2. 2Inspect the vehicle’s fuses related to the fuel gauge circuit.
  3. 3Visually check the fuel sender unit located in the fuel tank for any obvious damage.
  4. 4Test the fuel sender unit resistance using a multimeter.
  5. 5Check for proper voltage supply to the fuel sender unit connector.
  6. 6Inspect the wiring harness for any signs of wear, damage, or loose connections.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Tools Required: Safety gloves, safety goggles, OBD-II scanner, multimeter, socket set.
  • Disconnect the vehicle's battery to ensure safety while working on electrical components.

2. Access the Fuel Sender Unit

  • Remove the rear seat cushion or access panel (depending on your model) to gain access to the fuel pump assembly.
  • Disconnect the electrical connector from the fuel sender unit.

3. Test and Replace the Fuel Sender Unit

  • Using a multimeter, measure the resistance across the fuel sender terminals while moving the float arm up and down.
    • Resistance should vary smoothly; if it's stuck or shows no change, replace the sender unit.
  • If replacement is necessary, proceed to remove the fuel pump assembly:
    • Unscrew the retaining ring using a specialized tool or a flathead screwdriver.
    • Carefully lift the assembly out of the tank, taking care not to damage the fuel lines.
  • Install the new fuel sender unit into the assembly:
    • Align the float arm properly.
    • Secure the retaining ring and reconnect the electrical connector.

4. Reassemble and Reconnect

  • Reinstall the access panel or rear seat cushion.
  • Reconnect the vehicle’s battery.
  • Clear any error codes using the OBD-II scanner.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • Disconnect the vehicle's battery to ensure safety while working on electrical components.

Parts Required

  • Fuel sender unit (if faulty)

Additional Information

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

1 items

Parts

1 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. why does my BMW X5 F15 (2014-2019) have a check engine light after repairs

    ## Problem Statement The check engine light is illuminated on a 2014-2019 BMW X5 F15 after recent repairs, indicating that there may be unresolved iss...

    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Possible codes stored in the ECU
    • +{count} more
  2. why does my BMW X5 F15 (2014-2019) have a rough idle when cold

    ## Problem Statement The BMW X5 F15 (2014-2019) is experiencing a rough idle when the engine is cold, indicating potential issues with the fuel delive...

    Symptoms
    • •Rough engine idle when cold
    • •Engine misfires during initial startup
    • +{count} more
  3. why is my BMW X5 F15 (2014-2019) not shifting properly

    ## Problem Statement The BMW X5 F15 (2014-2019) is experiencing issues with not shifting properly, which may indicate a problem with the transmission ...

    Symptoms
    • •Delay in shifting between gears
    • •Harsh or rough shifting when changing gears
    • +{count} more
  4. why does my BMW X5 F15 (2014-2019) have a strong smell of fuel

    ## Problem Statement The BMW X5 F15 (2014-2019) is experiencing a strong smell of fuel, which may indicate a fuel leak or an issue with the fuel syste...

    Symptoms
    • •Strong fuel odor in the cabin or around the vehicle
    • •Fuel gauge showing incorrect levels
    • +{count} more
  5. what causes the P0420 code in my BMW X5 F15 (2014-2019)

    P0420

    ## Problem Statement The P0420 code indicates a problem with the catalytic converter efficiency in a BMW X5 F15 (2014-2019). This code means that the ...

    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Reduced engine performance
    • +{count} more
  6. how to troubleshoot the airbag light in my BMW X5 F15 (2014-2019)

    ## Problem Statement The airbag light is illuminated on a BMW X5 F15 (2014-2019), indicating a potential issue with the airbag system that requires tr...

    Symptoms
    • •Airbag warning light on the dashboard
    • •Possible warning message on the display
    • +{count} more

Share this solution

Comments

Sign in to share your thoughts

Sign In

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation