GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

FUEL GAGE READS 'E' POSSIBLE GAGE/TRANS FUSE BLOWN

FUEL GAUGE READS "E", GAUGE/TRANS FUSE BLOWN

VEHICLES AFFECTED: 1978-1987 RWD DE VILLE AND BROUGHAM

Some 1978 - 1987 rear-wheel-drive De Villes and Broughams may experience a fuel gauge reading "E" at all times. This condition may be caused by a blown gauge/trans fuse due to a high current draw ELC compressor. To determine if the ELC compressor is causing the fuse to blow:

1. Install a new fuse.

2A. IF THE FUSE IS BLOWN the ELC compressor is not necessarily the cause. Refer to Section 8A of the Service Information Manual and check for shorts to ground on the appropriate circuits.

2B. IF THE GAUGE/TRANS FUSE IS NOT BLOWN ground the ELC test connector. This will turn the ELC compressor on.

3. If after 2-1/2 minutes of ELC compressor operation the fuse is still OK, the ELC compressor is good.

4. If the fuse blows, the ELC compressor is drawing too much current. Repair by replacing the ELC compressor.

General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.