P0461

DTC P0461

Diagnostic Instructions

* Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle Initial Inspection and Diagnostic Overview
* Review Strategy Based Diagnosis
* Diagnostic Procedure Instructions

DTC Descriptor

DTC P0461
- Fuel Level Sensor Circuit Performance

Diagnostic Fault Information






Circuit/System Description

The fuel level sensor changes resistance in response to the fuel level. The engine control module (ECM)/ powertrain control module (PCM) monitors the signal circuit of the fuel level sensor in order to determine the fuel level. When the fuel tank is full, the fuel level sensor resistance is low and the ECM/PCM senses a low signal voltage. When the fuel tank is empty, the fuel level sensor resistance is high and the ECM/PCM senses a high signal voltage. The ECM/PCM uses the signal circuit of the fuel level sensor in order to calculate the percentage of fuel remaining in the tank. The ECM/PCM sends the fuel level information via the serial data circuit to the body control module (BCM). The BCM sends the fuel information to the instrument panel cluster via the serial data circuit in order to control the fuel gage and display the fuel level.

Conditions for Running the DTC

The engine is running.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

The ECM/PCM does not detect a change in fuel level of at least 1.6 percent over a distance of 193 km (120 miles).

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

* The fuel gage defaults to empty.
* The low fuel indicator illuminates.
* The ECM/PCM records the operating conditions at the time that the diagnostic test fails. The ECM/PCM displays the failure information in the Failure Records on the scan tool.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

* The DTC becomes history when the conditions for setting the DTC are no longer present.
* The history DTC clears after 40 malfunction-free warm-up cycles.

Component Testing

1. Ignition OFF, remove the fuel level sender and verify there are no obstructions interfering with the fuel level sender.

• If any interference is present, repair the fuel sender interference.

2. Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connector at the fuel level sensor.
3. While sweeping the fuel level sensor through its full range of motion, test for a minimum resistance value of less than 41 ohms and a maximum value greater than 119 ohms between the signal terminal C and the low reference terminal D.

• If not within the specified range, replace the fuel level sensor.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification Verification Tests

* Fuel Level Sensor Replacement
* Fuel Level Sensor Replacement (RPO NU6) Fuel Level Sensor Replacement (RPO NT7)
* Fuel Level Sensor Replacement