GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Object Number: 387285  Size: MF
Engine Controls Components
Cell 20: Fuel Level and Fuel Tank Pressure Sensors
OBD II Symbol Description Notice
Powertrain Control Module Connector End Views
Handling ESD Sensitive Parts Notice
Handling ESD Sensitive Parts Notice

Circuit Description

The powertrain control module (PCM) uses the fuel level input in order to calculate the expected vapor pressures within the fuel system. These vapor pressures vary as the fuel level changes. The vapor pressure is critical in determining if the Evaporative Emissions system is operating properly. The PCM also uses the fuel level in order to determine if the fuel level is too high or too low to be able to accurately detect EVAP system malfunction.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

The fuel level sensor should be less than 3.5 percent for more than 25 seconds.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

    • The PCM records the operating conditions at the time the diagnostic fails. The Failure Records buffers will store this information.
    • A History DTC is stored.
    • The fuel tank level defaults to 40 percent.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

    • A History DTC clears after 40 consecutive warm up cycles without a fault.
    • Use a scan tool to clear the DTCs.

Diagnostic Aids

    • An intermittent problem may be caused by the following conditions:
       - Poor electrical connection
       - Rubbed through wire insulation
       - A wire that is broken inside the wire insulation
    • Any circuitry, that is suspected as causing the intermittent complaint, should be thoroughly checked for the following conditions:
       - Backed out terminals
       - Improper mating
       - Broken locks
       - Improperly formed or damaged terminals
       - Poor terminal to wire connection

Test Description

Number(s) below refer to the step number(s) on the Diagnostic Table.

  1. The Powertrain OBD System Check prompts the technician to complete some basic checks and store the freeze frame and failure records data on the scan tool if applicable. This creates an electronic copy of the data taken when the malfunction occurred. The information is then stored in the scan tool for later reference.

  2. This step simulates a DTC P0463. If the PCM senses the change, then the PCM and the Fuel Level Sensor wiring are OK.

  3. The replacement PCM must be programmed and the crankshaft position variation procedure must be performed. Refer to the latest Techline procedure for PCM reprogramming and also refer to Crankshaft Position System Variation Learn for the Crankshaft Position Variation Procedure.

DTC P0462 - Fuel Level Circuit Too Low

Step

Action

Value(s)

Yes

No

1

Was the Powertrain On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check performed?

--

Go to Step 2

Go to

Powertrain On Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check

2

  1. Turn ON the ignition switch leaving the engine OFF.
  2. Install a scan tool.

Is the Fuel Level sensor value greater than the specified value?

3.5%

Go to Diagnostic Aids

Go to Step 3

3

Disconnect the Fuel Level sensor electrical connector.

Is the Fuel Level sensor value greater than the specified value?

98%

Go to Step 5

Go to Step 4

4

  1. Turn OFF the ignition switch.
  2. Check the for a short to ground in the Fuel Level sensor signal circuit.
  3. Repair the circuit as necessary. Refer to Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems.

Was a repair necessary?

--

Go to Step 7

Go to Step 6

5

  1. Turn OFF the ignition switch.
  2. Replace the Fuel Level sensor. Refer to the Fuel Level Sensor Replacement for the replacement procedure.

Is the action complete?

--

Go to Step 7

--

6

Replace the PCM. Refer to the Powertrain Control Module Replacement for the replacement procedure.

Is the action complete?

--

Go to Step 7

--

7

  1. Using the scan tool, clear the DTCs.
  2. Start the engine and idle at normal operating temperature.
  3. Operate the vehicle within the conditions for setting this DTC as specified in the supporting text.

Does the scan tool indicate that the diagnostic ran and passed?

--

Go to Step 8

Go to Step 2

8

Check if any additional DTCs are set.

Are any DTCs displayed that have not been diagnosed?

--

Go to applicable DTC table

System OK