I recently purchased my 2nd MB...a 2001 ML 430 Sport. It's a great ride, however I've noticed something odd. I filled the tank up a few days ago and now I sit at less than 3/4 of a tank. the problem is that I only show 28.7 miles since my last fill-up. Not very good economy, if you ask me...anyone else had this problem. If so, how did you resolve it? Thanks in advance for the insight.

 

You might have a bad fuel sender...common promblem!

 

Thanks for the input, ML God. From the posts I've seen, you seem to be the resident expert. Would a bad fuel sender also make my "check engine" light come on? Because that happened a few days ago and it is still on. Seems to be a common problem on the board. Thanks again.

 

The sender has to be almost a dead failer to turn the "check engine" light on

 

hey...join the bad fuel sender club. I was told mine would run me around $800...decided I could estimate how much fuel I have and save $800!!

Ironically my check engine light came on after the fuel thing...it ended up being a bad MAS = mass air flow sensor!

Good luck

 

Am I correct in my understanding that the fuel sender is what dictates the display on the fuel gauge? Does it serve any other purpose? Is this problem in any way, shape or form related to my potential mass air flow sensor problem? Thanks to all for your insight.

 

Whenever I fill my tank up the feul gauge only reads 3\4 full. This, I guess, is the feul sender's fault! but...it shouldn't have anyhting to do with the check engine light. I never fixed my fuel sender and the CEL has not yet come on again!
I guess I have to assume I always have a 1\4 more gas than whats shown!

 

I read some where that the CEL will come on if the fuel cap is not on tight enough.

I also have the gas gauge do the same thing.......
However, when the pump automatically shuts off the first time, I keep trying to fill more till I can seee the gas a bit.

The gauge then moves up higher.....

I believe the gas pumps shut off too quick! A gas attendant mentioned this to me as well.