1. Troubleshooting:
* Check the Fuel Level: The most obvious first step! Make sure the fuel tank actually has gas in it. A completely empty tank *might* cause the needle to drop to zero and stick there, although usually it would just sit at empty.
* Listen for the Fuel Pump: Turn the ignition key to the "ON" position (without starting the car). You should hear the fuel pump briefly prime. If you don't hear it, it could indicate a fuel pump relay problem, which is a much more serious issue unrelated to the gauge.
* Inspect the Gauge Cluster: Carefully examine the gauge cluster itself. Is the needle physically bent or detached? Sometimes, a jarring impact can slightly bend the needle. If it's visibly bent, you might be able to gently straighten it with tweezers, but this is a delicate process and could easily break the needle.
* Test the Gauge Sender (Most Likely Culprit): The fuel level sender is located in the fuel tank. It's a float-type device that sends a resistance signal to the gauge cluster based on the fuel level. A faulty sender is the most common cause of a malfunctioning gas gauge. This requires dropping the fuel tank (a significant undertaking). You'll need a repair manual to guide you through this, as it involves disconnecting fuel lines, electrical connectors, and tank straps. Testing the sender requires a multimeter to check the resistance at different fuel levels. Repair manuals usually have the resistance values based on fuel level. Replacement of the sender is the most likely solution if this test fails.
* Check the Wiring: Inspect the wiring harness connecting the fuel level sender to the instrument cluster for any breaks, corrosion, or loose connections. A visual inspection is usually sufficient, but you could use a multimeter to check for continuity.
2. Repair Options (in order of increasing difficulty and cost):
* (Least Likely) Straighten the Needle: If the needle is visibly bent, *very carefully* attempt to straighten it with fine-tipped tweezers. This is a last resort and has a high chance of breaking the needle entirely.
* Replace the Fuel Level Sender: This is the most likely solution. It involves dropping the fuel tank, which is a significant job requiring mechanical skills and the correct tools. You'll need a new fuel level sending unit. Always disconnect the negative battery terminal before working on any fuel system components.
* Replace the Gauge Cluster: If the problem isn't the sender or wiring, it could be a faulty gauge in the cluster. This is an expensive option. It requires removing the instrument cluster and replacing the entire unit with a new or used one.
3. Important Considerations:
* Safety First: Work on the fuel system requires careful attention to safety. Always disconnect the negative battery terminal before starting. Work in a well-ventilated area, and avoid sparks or flames near the fuel tank. Gasoline is highly flammable.
* Repair Manual: A repair manual specific to a 1995 Ford Probe GT is invaluable. It will provide detailed instructions and diagrams for accessing and replacing components.
* Professional Help: If you are not comfortable working on your car's fuel system, it's best to take it to a qualified mechanic. Replacing the fuel level sender is a relatively involved job.
In short, a broken gas gauge needle is rarely the needle itself. Focus your efforts on the fuel level sender and its wiring first. Replacing the sender is a very likely solution, but it's a challenging repair for a DIYer. If you lack experience working on cars, getting professional help is highly recommended.
