DTC P0461 (AWD) (2021)
DTC P0461: Fuel Level Sensor (Fuel Gauge Sending Unit) Circuit Range/Performance Problem
General Description
The fuel level sensor in the fuel tank measures the fuel level of the fuel tank. The powertrain control module (PCM) checks the change in the fuel level sensor output and then compares it to the calculated fuel level value. If the absolute difference between the fuel level sensor output change and the fuel consumption is a specified value for a specified duration when a certain fuel amount is consumed, the PCM detects a malfunction and stores a DTC.
Repeatedly filling the tank with less than the specified amount may lead to a mismatch in the actual fuel amount versus the calculated amount.
Monitor Execution, Sequence, Duration, DTC Type
| Execution | Continuous |
| Sequence | None |
| Duration | 0.1 second or more |
| DTC Type | Two drive cycles, MIL on |
Enable Conditions
| Condition | Minimum | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| Elapsed time after the vehicle condition is turned to the ON mode | 520 milliseconds | - |
| Total driving distance | 31.1 miles (50.0 km) | - |
| Fuel consumption after refueling | 21.7 L (5.73 US gal) | - |
| 12 volt battery voltage [Battery] | 11 V | - |
| Other | Test-drive on a flat road to avoid misdetection | |
[ ]: HDS Parameter
Malfunction Threshold
Any of the condition occurs:
- The fuel level sensor output change is 82 % or more when the fuel level converted from the fuel consumption is 35 %.
- The fuel level sensor output change is 120 % or more when the fuel level converted from the fuel consumption is 70 %.
- The fuel level sensor output change is -12 % or less when the fuel level converted from the fuel consumption is 35 %.
- The fuel level sensor output change is 20 % or less when the fuel level converted from the fuel consumption is 70 %.
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.
- -
Refueling the tank with less than the specified amount of 10 L (2.6 US gal) three times, may lead to a mismatch in the actual fuel amount versus the calculated amount. To prevent this, make sure that the customer fills the tank with the minimum specified amount during refueling. Refer to the How to Refuel section of the owner's manual for details.
- Fuel level sensor failure
Confirmation Procedure
Operating Condition
- Start the engine.
- Drive the vehicle at least 31.1 miles (50.0 km) without refueling.
- The vehicle can be turned to the OFF (LOCK) mode during the test-drive.
- Test-drive on a flat road to avoid misdetection.
- Drive the vehicle in this manner only if the traffic regulations and ambient conditions allow.
Diagnosis Details
Conditions for setting the DTC
When a malfunction is detected during the first drive cycle, a Pending DTC is stored in the PCM memory. If the malfunction returns in the next (second) drive cycle, the MIL comes on and a Confirmed DTC and the freeze data are stored.
Conditions for clearing the DTC
The MIL is cleared if the malfunction does not return in three consecutive trips in which the diagnostic runs. The MIL, the Pending DTC, the Confirmed DTC, and the freeze data can be cleared with the scan tool clear command or by disconnecting the 12 volt battery.