Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Circuit/System Description
The fuel level sensor changes resistance in response to the fuel level. The engine control module (ECM) monitors the signal circuit of the fuel level sensor and the type of fuel in order to determine the fuel level. For regular unleaded fuel the ECM monitors a constant signal. When the vehicle has approximately 20% or greater ethanol for E85 applications, the ECM controls a pulse cycle signal where it monitors the signal and calculates the fuel level percentage only during the on pulse of approximately 100 ms.
When the fuel tank is full, the sensor resistance is low and the ECM senses a low signal voltage. When the fuel tank is empty, the sensor resistance is high and the ECM senses a high signal voltage. The ECM uses the signal circuit of the fuel level sensor in order to calculate the percentage of remaining fuel in the tank. The ECM sends the fuel level percentage via the serial data circuit to the instrument cluster in order to control the fuel gauge.
This diagnostic tests for an intermittent fuel level sender signal. If a change in fuel level is detected DTC P0442 is aborted due to a possible refueling event. A refueling event test is executed to confirm that a refueling event has occurred. If refueling is confirmed, the test for DTC P0464 is considered passing. The refueling event test must pass 2 out of 3 times, otherwise, the DTC will set indicating an intermittent signal problem.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.