Fuel gauge only working in diagnostic cluster test

[Zacw]

So I just bought this 2000 wrangler sahara knowing that the fuel gauge was broken. It reads empty no matter what, but when I did the cluster diagnostic test by holding the reset trip button on the dash I saw it go to half, full then back to empty. I started the engine and it read empty, previous owner told me he put a full tank in it before hand and I should have around half a tank left as I've driven 100~miles.

Would this mean it's the fuel pump assembly I have to switch out?

Thanks in advance,

 

[Chris]

That means your fuel level sensor in the tank is likely bad. I’d bet money that’s what it is.

 

[Zacw]

That means your fuel level sensor in the tank is likely bad. I’d bet money that’s what it is.

Would that be the whole fuel pump assembly then? There's no way to just change the sensor I'm guessing.

 

[Zacw]

Also what would be a good cost I should look for in labor for outsourcing this project to a professional?

 

[Chris]

Would that be the whole fuel pump assembly then? There's no way to just change the sensor I'm guessing.

Believe it or not, you can actually replace just the sensor itself. I was surprised to find that out, as I thought you had to replace the entire fuel pump assembly.

Though I will say, with as much of a pain in the ass as it is to drop the tank, I'd personally replace the entire fuel pump assembly while you're in there.

 

[Chris]

Also what would be a good cost I should look for in labor for outsourcing this project to a professional?

I could drop the tank in an hour if I had help, it's not hard, you just need an extra set of hands really. So I would say most shops would probably charge $100-$200 for labor, and probably $150-$200 for parts.

 

[Zacw]

I could drop the tank in an hour if I had help, it's not hard, you just need an extra set of hands really. So I would say most shops would probably charge $100-$200 for labor, and probably $150-$200 for parts.

Got it, if it's that easy I'll probably just tackle it myself. Appreciate the reassurance, Chris! Have a great day

 

[Chris]

Got it, if it's that easy I'll probably just tackle it myself. Appreciate the reassurance, Chris! Have a great day

No problem! It's not that hard, you just want to have someone helping you, and an ATV jack makes a huge difference.

Nice Mustang by the way!