GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Circuit Description

The fuel level sensor changes resistance based on fuel level. The instrument panel cluster (IPC) monitors the signal circuit of the fuel level sensor in order to determine fuel level. When the fuel tank is full, the sensor resistance is high and the IPC senses a high signal voltage. When the fuel tank is empty, the sensor resistance is low and the IPC senses a low signal voltage. The IPC uses the signal circuit of the fuel level sensor in order to determine fuel gage position. The IPC sends the fuel level percent via the class 2 serial data circuit to the powertrain control module (PCM) for misfire and evaporative emission (EVAP) diagnostics.

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

DTC Descriptor

This diagnostic procedure supports the following DTC:

DTC B0530 Fuel Level Sensor Signal Circuit Stuck

Conditions for Running the DTC

The ignition is ON.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

The IPC does not detect a change in fuel level of at least 1.0 L (0.26 gal) over a distance of 161 km (100 mi).

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

The fuel gage defaults to empty.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

    • The DTC becomes history when the conditions for setting the DTC are no longer present.
    • The IPC receives the clear code command from the scan tool.

Step

Action

Value(s)

Yes

No

Schematic Reference: Instrument Cluster Schematics

1

Did you perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle?

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Go to Step 2

Go to Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle in Vehicle DTC Information

2

  1. Remove the fuel level sender.
  2. Inspect for the following items:
  3. • A stuck fuel level sensor (i.e. the fuel strainer interfering with the sender float arm)
    • Foreign material in the fuel tank (ice)

Did you find and correct the condition?

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Go to Step 4

Go to Step 3

3

Replace the fuel level sensor. Refer to Fuel Level Sensor Replacement in Engine Controls.

Did you complete the replacement?

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Go to Step 4

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4

  1. Use the scan tool in order to clear the DTCs.
  2. Operate the vehicle within the Conditions for Running the DTC as specified in the supporting text.

Does the DTC reset?

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Go to Step 2

System OK