Engine-Codes - Chevrolet - P0461 Chevrolet

P0461 Chevrolet Code - Fuel Level Sensor Performance

- Code Popularity: 30,389 Views
- Repair Importance Level: 3/3
- Repair Difficulty Level: 3/3
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What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0461 Chevrolet?

NOTE: The causes shown may not be a complete list of all potential problems, and it is possible that there may be other causes.
  • Faulty Fuel Level Sensor
  • Fuel Level Sensor harness is open or shorted
  • Fuel Level Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Instrument Cluster
  • Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

Code Tech Notes

A low fuel level can trigger this code. Before replacing any parts, try filling up the fuel tank and erasing the engine code. If the problem persists, it may be necessary to replace the fuel level sensor.

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How to Fix the DTC P0461 Chevrolet?

Check the 'Possible Causes' listed above. Visually inspect the related wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and look for broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded connector pins.

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What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

The cost to diagnose the P0461 Chevrolet code is 1.0 hour of labor. The diagnosis time and labor rates at auto repair shops vary depending on the location, make and model of the vehicle, and even the engine type. Most auto repair shops charge between $75 and $150 per hour.

What are Code Possible Symptoms?

  • Engine Light ON (or Service Engine Soon Warning Light)
  • Incorrect fuel level reading

What Does the P0461 Chevrolet Code Mean?

Diesel Engine
The primary fuel level sensor and the secondary fuel level sensor change resistance based on fuel level. The Fuel Pump Driver Control Module monitors the signal circuits of the primary fuel level sensor and the secondary fuel level sensor and sends the signal information to the Engine Control Module (ECM) for all further handling. The ECM uses this value in order to determine the fuel level. When the fuel tank is full, the resistances of both fuel level sensors are low, and the ECM senses a low signal voltage on both the signal circuits of the primary fuel level sensor and the secondary fuel level sensor. When the fuel tank is empty, the resistances of the fuel level sensors are high, and the ECM senses a high signal voltage. The ECM uses the signal circuits of the primary fuel level sensor and the secondary fuel level sensor in order to calculate the percentage of remaining fuel in the tank. The ECM sends the fuel level percentage via the serial data circuit to the instrument cluster in order to control the fuel gauge.

Gasoline Engine
The primary fuel level sensor and the secondary fuel level sensor change resistance based on fuel level. The Engine Control Module (ECM) monitors the signal circuits of the primary fuel level sensor and the secondary fuel level sensor in order to determine the fuel level. When the fuel tank is full, the resistances of both fuel level sensors are low, and the ECM senses a low signal voltage on both the signal circuits of the primary fuel level sensor and the secondary fuel level sensor. When the fuel tank is empty, the resistances of the fuel level sensors are high, and the ECM senses a high signal voltage. The ECM uses the signal circuits of the primary fuel level sensor and the secondary fuel level sensor in order to calculate the percentage of remaining fuel in the tank. The ECM sends the fuel level percentage via the serial data circuit to the instrument cluster in order to control the fuel gauge.

The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set if the ECM detects a change in fuel level of less than a specified amount (typically 3 - 10 L or 0.8 - 2.6 gal) over a specified driving distance (typically 240 - 320 km or 150 - 200 miles).
P0461 Chevrolet Code - Fuel Level Sensor Performance

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