Gas gauge or sending unit?

[gapboi210]

I am not sure if this is normal on the 4Runners but my gauge always took a long time to go from empty to full after a fill up. Last tank I got 165 on the tank. I was freaking out. Well after filling it up and it only taking 12 gallons I knew the gauge wasn't accurate. With a full tank it is sitting below 3/4. I was wondering if it was the gauge since it seemed to move slow. Kinda hoping it is the gauge so I don't have to drop the tank.


Any ideas?

 

[techno]

I would guess it is the gauge. It is generally accepted that the 4runner gauge is not very accurate anyway. Mine will go from full to 3/4 in 30 miles, 1/2 in 100, 1/4 in 180, light comes at 230, empty at around 270. Approximate figures of course.
Sorry, but I dont have any gauge maintenance suggestions.

 

[gapboi210]

Mine was never really accurate either. But full was always full and empty was always empty. I noticed also when I have the key on ACC the gauge goes all the way down to empty.

 

[polvadis]

I don't think it's the gauge. The only way it would be is if it was physically sticking on your dashboard for some reason. But if it's moving freely up and down, then I think the problem is in your tank with the measuring device, i.e. floater (if 4Runners still have them).

But I agree that the fuel gauge always runs sort of funny; when full it will show full for long time and barely start dropping, but the lower it gets the faster the needle drops. Seems that's the case for most car makes out there.