DTC Advanced Diagnostics: P0461
DTC P0461:Fuel Level Sensor (Fuel Gauge Sending Unit) Circuit Range/Performance Problem

General Description

The fuel level sensor is incorporated with the fuel pump and installed in the fuel tank. Using a built-in potentiometer and float, it converts the movement of the float into electrical signals that correspond to the fuel level, and it indicates the amount of fuel in the fuel tank. If the powertrain control module (PCM) receives no change in the fuel level sensor output after driving for a specified number of miles, it detects a malfunction and stores a DTC.

Monitor Execution, Sequence, Duration, DTC Type
Execution
Once per driving cycle
Sequence
None
Duration
–
DTC Type
One drive cycle, MIL off

Enable Conditions
Condition
Minimum
Maximum
Mileage
124 miles (200 km)
–
Other
No refueling is required

Malfunction Threshold
The change in the fuel level sensor output [FUEL LEVEL] is 3.5 % or less.

[ ]: HDS Parameter

Possible Cause
NOTE: The causes shown may not be a complete list of all potential problems, and it is possible that there may be other causes.
Fuel gauge sending unit failure

Confirmation Procedure
Operating Condition
Drive for 124 miles (200 km) or more under Enable Conditions (see "Other") without refueling (accepts the vehicle to the OFF (LOCK) mode during the test drive).
Drive the vehicle in this manner only if the traffic regulations and ambient conditions allow.
With the HDS
None.

Diagnosis Details
Conditions for setting the DTC
When a malfunction is detected in a certain drive cycle and a malfunction is detected in the same drive cycle, a Pending DTC, a Confirmed DTC, the freeze data, and the on-board snapshot are stored in the PCM memory. The MIL does not come on.

Conditions for clearing the DTC
The Pending DTC, the Confirmed DTC, the freeze data, and the on-board snapshot can be cleared with the scan tool Clear command or by disconnecting the 12 volt battery.