P0461-FUEL LEVEL SENSOR 1 PERFORMANCE





For a complete wiring diagram Refer to Section 8W.

Theory of Operation


The fuel level rationality will set a fault for a fuel level reading that does not change over an accumulated mileage threshold to keep stuck high or stuck low fuel levels from disabling OBD monitors. If the vehicle is fitted with a saddle tank fuel system this feature includes diagnostics for both of the sending units and diagnostics for a siphon tube that has become disconnected or plugged. The power up test looks to see a large enough fuel level voltage change from the last key-off to the following engine run. The engine run test looks to see a fuel level voltage change over an accumulated mileage.


Possible Causes
(N4) FUEL LEVEL SIGNAL CIRCUIT OPEN
(N4) FUEL LEVEL SIGNAL CIRCUIT SHORTED TO GROUND
(K900) SENSOR GROUND CIRCUIT OPEN
FUEL TANK
FUEL LEVEL SENSOR


Always perform the Pre-Diagnostic Troubleshooting procedure before proceeding. (Refer to 9 - ENGINE - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING).



Diagnostic Test

1. ACTIVE DTC

NOTE: Diagnose any CAN - C or CAN - B Communication DTCs before continuing.

NOTE: Diagnose P0462 or P0463 first, if set along with P0461.


Start the engine.
Allow the engine to reach normal operating temperature.
With a scan tool, select View DTCs and record the related Freeze Frame data.

NOTE: It may be necessary to drive the vehicle to meet the conditions to set this DTC, try to repeat the conditions in which the fault originally set by reviewing the Freeze Frame data.



Is the DTC Active or Pending at this time?

Yes


No

2. VISUALLY INSPECT FUEL TANK

Visually inspect the Fuel Tank for damage that may restrict the Fuel Sending Unit float from moving.

Is the Fuel Tank OK?

Yes


No

3. (N4) FUEL LEVEL SIGNAL CIRCUIT OPEN



Turn the ignition off.
Disconnect the Fuel Pump Module harness connector.
Disconnect the C7 TIPM harness connector.
Measure the resistance of the (N4) Fuel Level Signal circuit from the Fuel Pump Module harness connector to the TIPM harness connector.

Is the resistance below 5.0 ohms?

Yes


No

4. (N4) FUEL LEVEL SIGNAL CIRCUIT SHORTED TO GROUND



Measure the resistance between ground and the (N4) Fuel Level Signal circuit in the Fuel Pump Module harness connector.

Is the resistance below 100 ohms?

Yes


No

5. (K900) SENSOR GROUND CIRCUIT OPEN



Disconnect the C2 PCM harness connector.

CAUTION: Do not probe the PCM harness connectors. Probing the PCM harness connectors will damage the PCM terminals resulting in poor terminal to pin connection. Install Miller Special Tool #8815 to perform diagnosis.


Measure the resistance of the (K900) Sensor Ground circuit from the Fuel Pump Module harness connector to the appropriate terminal of special tool #8815.

Is the resistance below 100 ohms?

Yes


No

6. INTERNAL INSPECTION OF THE FUEL TANK

WARNING: The fuel system is under a constant pressure (even with the engine off). Before testing or servicing any fuel system hose, fitting or line, the fuel system pressure must be released. Failure to follow these instructions can result in personal injury or death.


Remove the Fuel Tank per Service Information.
Remove the Fuel Pump Module.
Visually inspect the inside of the Fuel Tank for any obstructions or deformities.
Inspect the Fuel Pump Module Float arm for damage.

Were any problems found?

Yes


No

7. FUEL LEVEL SENSOR


If there are no possible causes remaining, view repair.

Repair