P0461

Schematic:

CIRCUIT DESCRIPTION
The Fuel Level Sensor changes resistance based on fuel level. The Fuel Level Sensor has a signal circuit and a ground circuit. The PCM applies a voltage (about 5.0 volts) on the signal circuit to the sensor. The PCM monitors the changes in this voltage caused by changes in the resistance of the sensor in order to determine fuel level.

When the fuel tank is full, the sensor resistance is high, therefore, the PCM senses a high signal voltage (fuel tank full). When the fuel tank is empty, the sensor resistance is low, and the PCM senses a low signal voltage (fuel tank empty).

The PCM uses inputs from the Fuel Level Sensor in order to calculate the total fuel remaining in the fuel tank. This information is then sent to the fuel gauge. The Fuel Level information is also used for misfire and EVAP diagnostics.

This diagnostic tests for a stuck fuel level sensor signal. The PCM sets this DTC if the fuel level signal appears to be stuck based on a lack of signal variation expected during normal operation.

CONDITIONS FOR RUNNING THE DTC
^ The ignition switch is in the RUN position.
^ More than 150 miles have been accumulated.

CONDITIONS FOR SETTING THE DTC
The fuel level in the fuel tank does not decrease by at least 3.0 liters (3/4 gallon).

ACTION TAKEN WHEN THE DTC SETS
^ The PCM stores the DTC information into memory when the diagnostic runs and fails.
^ The Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) will not illuminate.
^ The PCM records the operating conditions at the lime the diagnostic fails. The PCM stores this information in the Failure Records.

CONDITIONS FOR CLEARING THE MIL/DTC
^ A History DTC will clear after 40 consecutive warm-up cycles, if no failures are reported by this or any other non-emission related diagnostic.
^ A last test failed (Current DTC) will clear when the diagnostic runs and does not fail.
^ Use a scan tool in order to clear the MIL/DTC.

DIAGNOSTIC AIDS

IMPORTANT:
^ Remove any debris from the PCM connector surfaces before servicing the PCM. Inspect the PCM connector gaskets when diagnosing/replacing the PCM. Ensure that the gaskets are installed correctly. The gaskets prevent water intrusion into the PCM.
^ For any test that requires probing the PCM or a component harness connector, use the J 35616A connector test adapter kit. Using this kit prevents damage to the harness/component terminals. Refer to Using Connector Test Adapters in Diagrams.

The vehicle fuel gauge displays empty with this DTC set.

Using Freeze Frame and/or Failure Records data may aid in locating an intermittent condition. If you cannot duplicate the DTC, the information included in the Freeze Frame and/or Failure Records data can aid in determining how many miles since the DTC set. The Fail Counter and Pass Counter can also aid determining how many ignition cycles the diagnostic reported a pass and/or a fail. Operate the vehicle within the same freeze frame conditions (RPM, load, vehicle speed, temperature etc.) that you observed. This will isolate when the DTC failed.

For an intermittent, refer to Symptoms. Symptom Related Diagnostic Procedures

TEST DESCRIPTION

Steps 1 - 4:

Steps 5 - 11:

The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table.
2. This step determines if the fault is present.