GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Fuel Gauge Erratic In Freezing Temperatures P0463 - keywords cluster cold float gage inaccurate intermittent IPC level sender

Subject:Fuel Gauge Erratic In Freezing Temperatures P0463

Models:2007-2008 Chevrolet Silverado
2007-2008 GMC Sierra
With One Of The Following Engine RPO's: LU3, LY2, LY5, LY6, LH6, L76, L92



This PI was superceded to add the 2008 model year and pic of sensor with shield. Please discard PIT4294D.


The following diagnosis might be helpful if the vehicle exhibits the symptom(s) described in this PI.

Condition/Concern:

Some Customers may comment that the fuel gauge is erratic and displays the incorrect fuel level in freezing weather.

Example concerns:

  1. The fuel tank is ¾ full. While driving, the fuel gauge gradually starts to display a lower fuel level, beyond the reduction that is due to engine fuel consumption. The fuel gauge may subsequently recover to an accurate fuel level display.
  2. After being parked in below-freezing weather, the vehicle is started and the fuel gauge displays a reading of "E". With driving, the gauge reading may slowly recover towards the actual fuel level. If the ignition is then cycled, the fuel gauge may now display the actual fuel level.

Note: A P0463 Diagnostic Trouble Code may or may not be set. If it is set, the fuel gauge is commanded to "E".

The condition is related to excess water in non-ethanol fuel at below-freezing temperatures causing ice crystals in the fuel which interferes with the proper operation of the fuel level sender.

Recommendation/Instructions:

Updated fuel level sensors, with a shield to help protect from icing, are now available to correct this concern. Use the chart below to obtain and install the updated part:

Part numbers

Engine RPO's

Models

19168425 (Front)

LY2 or LY5

LY2, LY5, LU3

LY6

1500 Ext. Cab Long Box (10953)

1500 Reg Cab Std or Long Box (10703 or 10903)

2500HD/3500HD All Models (except Chassis Cab Models)

19168426(Front)

LH6, LY2, LY5, L76, L92, LU3

LH6, LY2, LY5, L76, L92

1500 Ext Cab Short or Std Box (10553 or 10753)

1500 Crew Cab Short Box (10543

Note: Do not remove the shield from the new fuel level sensor, or the icing concern could reoccur. Below is a picture of the shield installed on the sensor.


Object Number: 2146669  Size: SH

Please follow this diagnostic or repair process thoroughly and complete each step. If the condition exhibited is resolved without completing every step, the remaining steps do not need to be performed.