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robertschneider91
GMC Canyon Stalling Issue Linked to Faulty Fuel Sensor
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robertschneider91 (Author)
Last service done at 65927km. The gauge fluctuates out of nowhere between full and empty while driving. No fuel smell detected. The stalling started gradually over the last two weeks, getting worse in cold weather. Only the check engine light is on, no other warning lights on the car dashboard. The main issue seems worse than a blown fuse since replacing the fuse box last week did not resolve it. The faulty sensor readings persist even after clearing the error codes through the diagnostic tool. Looking at repair costs, the level sensor replacement alone is quoted at 320 Euro plus labor. Before proceeding with such an expensive repair, would checking the wiring harness connections be worthwhile? These erratic fuel gauge readings are making it hard to track actual fuel levels. Already had one close call running out of fuel despite the gauge showing quarter tank.
tobiasdark1
Thanks for the additional details about your Canyon. Since we have similar models, I can share what I learned after my initial fuse discovery. After the fuse fix worked temporarily on my Sierra, the symptoms returned just like yours. The unusual fuel gauge fluctuations between full and empty while driving pointed to a wiring issue in my case. The car electronics were getting inconsistent signals from the fuel sensor. Before spending 320 Euro on a new sensor, definitely check the wiring harness connections. In my case, corrosion at the fuel pump module connector was causing intermittent contact. The workshop cleaned the connections and applied dielectric grease for 85 Euro, which solved both the gauge readings and stalling issues. The cold weather sensitivity you mentioned often indicates electrical connection problems in the fuel system rather than a failed sensor. If the wiring check doesnt reveal issues, then replacing the fuel sensor would be the next logical step. For now, track your mileage manually between fill-ups to avoid running empty. The erratic readings from a faulty fuel sensor can trigger check engine lights and cause stalling as the car computer receives incorrect fuel level data.
robertschneider91 (Author)
Looking at the current gauge behavior and cold weather connection, I agree the wiring harness should be checked first. The quoted 320 Euro for a level sensor replacement seems high if the real issue is just corroded connections like your Sierra had. My symptoms match yours exactly, unusual gauge readings between full and empty, gradual onset of stalling, and worse performance in cold weather. Good call on checking the wiring before replacing parts. The faulty sensor readings have already caused one close call with fuel levels, so I need this fixed soon. I will have the shop inspect the fuel pump module connector for corrosion first. 85 Euro for cleaning and sealing the connections is much more reasonable than 320 Euro for a new sensor that might not even fix the underlying issue. In the meantime, I will track mileage manually between fill-ups to avoid running empty again. The fuel system diagnostic shows similar errors to your case, so hopefully the fix will be equally straightforward. Thanks for sharing your experience, it helps narrow down the most likely cause before spending money on unnecessary parts.
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tobiasdark1
As someone with some hands-on experience, I dealt with a very similar fuel sensor issue on my 2006 GMC Sierra. The symptoms you describe match what I encountered, unreliable fuel gauge readings and engine stalling. The fuel system diagnostic showed a faulty fuel level sensor, but the actual problem turned out to be simpler. After checking the fuse box, I found a blown fuse connected to the fuel gauge circuit. The replacement fuse cost 52 Euro including diagnostic time at my regular workshop. This resolved both the gauge readings and the stalling issue. However, fuel sensor problems can have multiple causes in these models. To provide more specific guidance, could you share: Does the gauge show unusual readings or is it stuck at one level? Have you noticed any fuel smell? Are there any other warning lights besides the check engine light? Did the stalling start suddenly or gradually? The fuel tank setup is similar between Canyon and Sierra models, so the fix might be equally straightforward, but its best to rule out more serious fuel system problems first.