Fuel gauge indicator vs distance indicator

Asked by GuruC9CM7 Feb 01, 2019 at 02:05 PM about the 2009 Pontiac G6 Base Coupe

Question type: General

Since retiring and averaging only 25-30 mph in a small town, I've noticed that my fuel gauge indicator doesn't match with the estimated distance indicator.  Example-Today I had a full tank of gas and the estimated distance was around 80 miles.  However, after traveling interstate and using a half tank of gas, the estimated distance is 150 miles.  Is the problem a result of too little driving at lower speed?

1 Answer

26,285

Yes. Driving short distances at slow speeds causes your est range to go down. In your case, to 80. The car's brain is telling you at that rate of fuel consumption, you won't be able to go more than 80 miles before you will need to refill. when you drive more distance and at higher speeds, your MPG ill increase and your range will as well. Trust your gas gauge if you are in doubt.

1 people found this helpful.
Best Answer Mark helpful

Your Answer:

CarGurus Experts

  • #1
    BritishTech77
    Reputation
    3,610
  • #2
    Norm Davis
    Reputation
    2,800
  • #3
    Paul
    Reputation
    1,650
View All

Find great deals from top-rated dealers

Search

Related Models For Sale

Used Pontiac G8
1 listings starting at $6,995
Used Dodge Charger
44 Great Deals out of 827 listings starting at $6,999
Used Honda Accord
43 Great Deals out of 985 listings starting at $2,995
Used Chevrolet Corvette
34 Great Deals out of 861 listings starting at $14,900
Used Chevrolet Camaro
16 Great Deals out of 476 listings starting at $11,999
Used Ford Mustang
49 Great Deals out of 1,643 listings starting at $5,999
Used Honda Civic
197 Great Deals out of 3,932 listings starting at $2,877
Used Dodge Challenger
28 Great Deals out of 740 listings starting at $12,979
Used Mazda MAZDA3
81 Great Deals out of 1,372 listings starting at $2,777
Used Pontiac Solstice
3 Great Deals out of 30 listings starting at $9,800
Used Pontiac G5
6 listings
Used Ford Fusion
24 Great Deals out of 417 listings starting at $4,990

Content submitted by Users is not endorsed by CarGurus, does not express the opinions of CarGurus, and should not be considered reviewed, screened, or approved by CarGurus. Please refer to CarGurus Terms of Use. Content will be removed if CarGurus becomes aware that it violates our policies.