New guy, New truck, & question on fuel tank

[jdp8883]

I bought a 2009 Silverado/5.3L/2WD/extended cab last week. I ran it until my low fuel light came on to see how much my first tank would get me. When I filled it up the pump only registered 21 gallons. I checked my gauge in the truck and it registered at being full.

I was under the impression that my truck had a 26 gallon tank. Does the low fuel light come on when there is still 5 gallons left in the truck? Maybe as a way to trick idiots who like to run on fumes to fill up even though they still have a couple gallons left?

It's a awesome truck! My father raised me a Ford man, but my wife with her 2002 Silverado with 150K miles with ZERO problems made me reconsider. Just curious about the fuel tank

[retired2001]

Welcome to the site and congrat's on the new Chevy! On my '04, the "Low Fuel" light comes on with aprox. 3 galloins left in the tank. It may have been changed on the new trucks or it may just vary from truck to truck. I had a Caddy once that when the "Low Fuel" light came on it would cough and die(not good)!

[medsteele]

On my '02 Grand Prix, the Low Fuel lights kicks on when I have about 4 gallons left, and it's a 17.5 gallon tank. I'd say it's probably normal and you have nothing to worry about.

[setter g]

I am sure with fuel sloshing around and uphill and downhill slopes the sensor could be triggered with slightly more fuel left than if the fuel was perfectly calm and level. I've noticed on my vehicles that when parked on a slope the light will come on but then later on level ground will go off. just my 2cents.

[jow003]

i also have a 09 silverado. when my light comes on it says i have another 50 miles (i av18-19mpg). as im sure it does the same for you by just sayin "fuel low" below 30miles remaining i will say ive gone 15-20 miles with it saying that w/o a sputter (altho i washolding my breath and crossing my fingers)

[vncj96]

I now I only have two gallons left on my burban when my light comes on, just check you window sticker for your size of tank, I would say ask the dealer about the light but for some reason most guys that sell cars dont know much more about them that you cant read in the brochure, I would say let the truck break in, it should illuminate in the 3-5 gallon range

[bubba33]

26 gallons for the reg bed or short bed. I guess I am a idiot i have put 24.5 in mine before.

[poncho08]

When I fueled my truck up today i was almost empty. I only had 30 KM left. I put $100 of fuel in and it only toulk 86 L so I'm guessing that's roughly 25 gallons and my truck's extended cab regular box four-wheel-drive