P0461 OBD II Trouble Code Fuel Level Sensor Circuit Range Performance

Symptoms of P0461 OBD II Trouble Code

  • Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illuminated
  • Decrease in perceived fuel economy
  • Decrease in Distance to Empty mileage
  • Incorrect fuel level on gauge in instrument cluster ? always reads wrong

Common Causes of P0461 OBD II Trouble Code

  • Open in the signal circuit to the FLS sensor - possible
  • Short to voltage in the signal circuit to the FLS sensor- possible
  • Short to ground in the signal circuit to the FLS sensor- possible
  • Failed FLS Sensor / sensing arm stuck mechanically - likely
  • Failed PCM - unlikely

Severity of P0461 OBD II Trouble Code

Severity depends upon the failure. If a mechanical failure; severe. If an electrical failure, not as severe, as the PCM can compensate for it. The compensation usually means that the fuel gauge reads Empty or Full all the time.