This problem is more annoying than anything else. I bought my 2001 GMC Sierra 1500 in 2005 and noticed right off the bat that the fuel gauge was saying I had "low fuel." Once I put gas in the tank, I noticed the fuel light turning on and off which has been happening since. I was quoted a price of nearly $800 just to fix the sending unit, which is more than it would have costed to replace the entire fuel pump! Putting it in neutral helps make the gauge go right but I will be fixing the pump myself in the near future.

According to the dealership almost every GMC or Chevy 3/4 ton p/u manufactured between 1999 and 2003 has been or will be in for a new fuel pump. Apparently there is a faulty contact (that GM has changed in their new models) that causes the fuel gauge to read empty and have the low fuel idiot light come on as well. Usually, rocking the vehicle or hitting bumps will bring the gauge back to an accurate level. If you call GM for reimbursement, they claim that they have no idea about the issue. I find it somewhat odd that every GM mechanic knows about this all to well. I opted to replace the part myself with a name brand replacement pump as the sender and pump are one unit. The dealership quoted me $480 in parts and labor (more if the tank was full). I was able to purchase a new pump and replace it myself for significantly less. GM needs to take control of this and at least cover the cost of labor. This problem happens around 70,000 miles and most GM fuel pumps will fail completely around 120,000. I'm looking for some feedback on anyone else who has had this issue. Thanks.