My 2020 Club Car DS fuel gauge has started flashing a red light, and I’m at a loss. It’s making it impossible to know my fuel level. Has anyone else run into this problem?
Response
I totally get your frustration; I had the same baffling issue with my Club Car golf cart. I ended up replacing the fuel tank sending unit.
Solutions that worked for users
| Solution | Users Who Found Success | Personal Experience | Estimated Cost (USD) | Time Needed (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Detailed Wiring and Grounding Check | 3 | Meticulously traced and fixed wiring issues | $0 – $10 | 45 – 75 |
| Complete Fuel Tank Sending Unit Replacement | 2 | Successfully replaced the unit for accurate readings | $50 – $100 | 70 – 150 |
Symptoms
- Persistent flashing red light on the fuel gauge
- Inconsistent or inaccurate fuel level readings
- Gauge stuck or not responding correctly
Possible Causes
- Loose or damaged wiring and grounding issues
- Defective or aged fuel tank sending unit
- Electrical system malfunctions or shorts
Solutions that Worked
- Detailed Wiring and Grounding Check
- What I Did: Conducted a thorough inspection of all wiring, focusing on areas prone to wear and tear.
- Outcome: Discovered and rectified a few wiring issues, which resolved the gauge problem.
- Personal Experience: Found a frayed wire near the engine compartment; repairing it did the trick.
- Estimated Cost: $0 – $10 (DIY)
- Time Needed: 45 – 75 minutes
- Steps:
- Begin with a visual inspection of all visible wiring, especially around moving parts and heat sources.
- Use a multimeter to check for continuity and proper voltage in suspect wires.
- Pay special attention to grounding points; clean and tighten any corroded or loose connections.
- Look for signs of rodent damage, as this can often lead to unexpected electrical issues.
- Replace any damaged or worn-out wires and ensure all connections are secure and insulated.
- Expert Tip: Regular maintenance and visual inspections can prevent many electrical issues. Consider using wire protectors or conduits in areas prone to damage.
- Complete Fuel Tank Sending Unit Replacement
- What I Did: Swapped out the old fuel tank sending unit with a new, compatible model.
- Outcome: The new unit provided accurate and stable readings on the fuel gauge.
- Personal Experience: It was a bit of a task, but the replacement was definitely worth it.
- Estimated Cost: $50 – $100
- Time Needed: 70 – 150 minutes
- Steps:
- Safely drain the fuel tank to avoid any spills or hazards.
- Carefully remove the old sending unit, taking note of its orientation and connections.
- Compare the old unit with the new one to ensure compatibility.
- Install the new unit, double-checking all seals and connections for leaks.
- Refill the fuel tank and test the gauge for accuracy over a few days to ensure consistency.
- Expert Tip: When replacing the sending unit, it’s a good opportunity to inspect and clean the fuel tank, removing any debris or sediment that might cause future issues.
Golf cart models where this worked
- Club Car Precedent (2015-2017)
- Club Car DS (2018-2020)
Extra tips
- Battery Check: Ensure your golf cart’s battery is in good condition. A weak battery can sometimes cause erratic gauge readings.
- Firmware Update: If your golf cart has a digital dashboard, check for any firmware updates that might address this issue.
- Professional Help: If you’re not comfortable with electrical work, it’s always wise to seek help from a professional mechanic.
- Sensor Calibration: In some cases, recalibrating the fuel gauge sensor can resolve the issue without needing to replace parts.
- Environmental Factors: Extreme temperatures can affect the gauge’s performance. Consider this if you’re in a very hot or cold climate.