The evaporative emission (EVAP) system is used to store fuel vapors as to reduce the amount of unburned fuel from escaping into the atmosphere. The function of the fuel tank pressure sensor is solely for EVAP leak diagnostics. The fuel tank pressure sensor is a transducer that varies resistance according to changes in fuel tank pressure, which is the differences between fuel tank vapor and outside air pressure. The PCM measures the signal voltage from the fuel tank pressure sensor, which is a reduced value of the PCM 5 volt reference. The signal voltage will read low when the pressure in the fuel tank is low (vacuum) and will increase as the pressure in the tank increases. DTC P0452 sets when the signal voltage as the PCM is below the calibrated voltage value.

DTC P0452 will set if fuel tank pressure sensor voltage is less than 0.1 volts when:

DTC P0452 diagnostic runs continuously with the engine running.

DTC P0452 is a type B DTC.

If DTC P0122 and P0530 are also set, a short to ground on the 5 volt reference circuit may exist. Refer to 5 Volt Reference Circuit Error Diagnosis.

To locate an intermittent problem, use the scan tool to monitor the FUEL TANK PRESS. SENSOR voltage with the ignition ON and the engine OFF. Wiggling the wires while watching for a change in the FUEL TANK PRESS. SENSOR voltage may locate the area where an open or short to ground in the wiring could lie.

Important: The A/C pressure sensor, fuel tank pressure sensor, and TP sensor are all tied to the same 5 volt reference source.

Important: Inaccurate readings will occur if resistance measurements are taken on a fuel tank pressure sensor. The fuel tank pressure sensor contains an internal amplifier circuit that requires applied voltage to function properly.

The signal voltage with the fuel cap OFF should read between 2.35-2.85 volts, which represents atmospheric pressure or 0 inches of vacuum.