Gas Mileage?

Question

I have been observing lately that the gas meter in my car goes down much more slowly duing the first half tank of gas than the second. Is it possible that one gets better gas mileage with the first half compared to the second. I have a 98 Toyota Camry if that means anything. or, could this just be an optical / psychological illusion? Thanks

Answer 1

The overall shape of the tank often has a bearing on it. Many gas tanks are slightly bigger at the top, and sometimes have "humps" or bulges in them at the filler neck. The gas actually goes higher in the tank than the "float" does, that's why it takes a while for the needle to come off the full mark.

While not all do, some tanks have a "slope" at the bottom, so it "looks like" the gage is going down faster below a half tank...It seems strange, but it is really just an optical illusion.

Answer 2

You asked for my opinion here goes: Fuel gages aren't what they used to be and that's not saying much. The floats and wires from the tank to the little cheap electrical gages are cheap and from what I've seen all work the way you have described.

I have two winter beater Sables and a Toyota Camry we purchased in 04. They all do exactly do the same thing.

I can drive 100 miles in the Toyota and the needle does not move. The 24 valve Sable goes the same miles and route and the needle is bouncing off the full mark

At 3/4 empty the gas Gage drops like someone has stuck a pitch fork into the tank.

Have a nice day!

Answer 3

If you fill it up, you can get 30-50 miles on it before the needle ever moves. That's the way it is. I suppose it has to do with the shape of the gas tank and the location of the sending unit.

Answer 4

Mine does the exact same thing... I have a 2001 Neon and a 2000 Tacoma and they both do it...especially once we are down to the last 1/4 tank.

Answer 5

just the way the gauge works

Answer 6

You get the same milage from start to finish.

Answer 7

just the way gauges work,,all cars do it.