P0463 High signal level in the fuel level sensor circuit

OBD-II Trouble Code - P0463 - Data Sheet

P0463 - OBD-II Trouble Code: Fuel Level Sensor Circuit High Input (Fuel Level Sensor Circuit High Input).

When the powertrain control module (PCM) receives input from the fuel gauge (or fuel gauge) that is higher than the actual fuel level in the gas tank, it stores code P0463 and the Check Engine light comes on.

What does trouble code P0463 mean?

This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is a generic powertrain code, which means that is applies to OBD-II equipped vehicles. Although generic, the specific repair steps may vary depending on make/model.

The fuel level sensor (gauge) is located in the fuel tank, usually an integral part of the fuel pump module. They usually cannot be replaced without replacing the fuel pump module, although there are exceptions. Attached to the arm is a float that moves along a resistor that is grounded to the tank, frame, or has a dedicated ground circuit. Voltage is applied to the sensor and the ground path changes depending on the fuel level. How much voltage depends on the system, but 5 volts is not uncommon.

As the fuel level changes, the float moves the lever and changes the resistance to ground, which changes the voltage signal. This signal can go to the fuel pump computer module or directly to the instrument cluster module. Depending on the system, the fuel pump computer module can only monitor ground resistance and then transmit fuel level information to the dashboard. If the fuel level signal to the fuel pump module (or instrument cluster module or PCM (powertrain control module)) exceeds 5 volts for a specified period of time, then the module that monitors the fuel level circuit will set this DTC.

Associated Fuel Level Sensor Circuit Fault Codes include:

• P0460 Fuel Level Sensor Circuit Malfunction
• P0461 Fuel level sensor circuit out of range / performance
• P0462 Low input of the fuel level sensor circuit
• P0464 Fuel Level Sensor Intermittent Circuit

Symptoms

Symptoms of a P0463 trouble code may include:

• Mil (malfunction indicator lamp) is on
• The fuel gauge may deviate from the norm or show empty or full
• The fuel level indicator may light up and beep.
• Illuminates the Check Engine indicator
• Fluctuating or inaccurate fuel gauge
• Fuel light on and/or low fuel consumption buzzer

Causes of error З0463

Possible causes of a P0463 code include:

• The fuel sensor signal circuit is open or shorted to B + (battery voltage).
• Ground circuit is open or ground circuit may have high resistance due to rust or lack of grounding tape on fuel tank.
• Damage to the fuel tank can cause problems in the fuel level circuit.
• Open in the fuel lever sensor resistor to ground
• Possibly faulty instrument cluster
• It is less likely that the PCM, BCM, or fuel pump computer module has failed.
• Fuel level sensor circuit problem
• Faulty fuel level sensor
• Damage to the fuel level sensor in the gas tank
• Damage or corrosion in the gas tank
• PCM problem (rare)

Possible solutions

Fuel pump sensors typically last for the life of the fuel pump. Therefore, if you have this code, do a visual inspection of the fuel tank and wiring harness. Look for damage to the tank, indicating a shock that could damage the fuel pump or sensor. Look for a missing grounding strap or a rusty ground where the fuel tank is grounded to the frame. Check the harness connector for damage. Repair if necessary. Find out which system you have and verify that voltage is present at the fuel level sensor in the fuel pump harness. If not, repair open or short circuit in wiring.

Performing a voltage drop test on the ground circuit can determine if there is a high resistance path in the ground circuit. This can be done by using a voltmeter and connecting one lead to the battery ground terminal and the other lead to the fuel gauge ground on the tank. Turn on the key (it is desirable that the engine is running). Ideally, it should be 100 millivolts or less (1 volt). A value close to 1 volt indicates a current problem or an evolving problem. If necessary, repair / clean the “mass” of the fuel level sensor. It is possible that the instrument cluster has failed internally or on the circuit board (if applicable). It is very difficult for non-professionals to test them. But if you have access to the electrical circuitry, you can remove the cluster and see the damaged circuitry if it is located on the PCB, but otherwise you will need a scan tool that will interact with the instrument cluster.

An easy way to test the fuel level circuit is to make sure the fuel level sensor is properly grounded at the fuel tank connector. With the key on the fuel gauge should go to one extreme or another. Complete removal of the ground path should cause the pressure gauge to behave in reverse. If the sensor fires, you know that the wiring that supplies voltage and ground to the fuel level sensor is good and that the instrument cluster is most likely OK. A likely suspect would be the fuel level sensor itself. The fuel tank may need to be removed to gain access to the fuel pump module in the tank. Failure of the PCM or BCM (Body control module) is not impossible, but unlikely. Don't suspect it in the first place.

COMMON ERRORS WHEN DIAGNOSING CODE P0463

Technicians report that some of the most common errors and misdiagnosis with code P0463 are:

• Replacing the fuel pump when the problem is actually a damaged or faulty fuel gauge or fuel level sensor.
• Replace larger, more expensive components before checking wiring and connectors for faults or short circuits.
• Replacing the fuel gauge if the problem is due to corrosion or otherwise damaged wire or connector.

HOW SERIOUS CODE P0463 IS?

This code does not pose an immediate danger to the vehicle, but may put you in a dangerous or uncomfortable situation. If you can't tell how much fuel your car has, you may run out of gas when you're away from home or in poor condition. If your vehicle is stopped due to running out of fuel in a traffic jam, the situation can be very dangerous.

WHAT REPAIRS CAN FIX CODE P0463?

Some of the more common fixes for the P0463 code include:

• Repair or replacement of the fuel tank
• Repair or replacement of the fuel level sensor float
• Repair or replace the fuel level sensor.
• Replacing the fuel level sensor harness.
• Tightening a loose connection in the fuel level sensor circuit.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS TO BE AWARE OF CODE P0463

While you can determine how much fuel your vehicle has based on mileage, it's still important to resolve this code as soon as possible, especially if you need to pass an OBD-II emissions test to re-register your vehicle in your state. . When the fuel gauge reads inaccurate or erroneous readings, the PCM will keep the Check Engine light on, which means you cannot pass an emissions test until the problem is resolved. However, fortunately, this problem is usually easily solved without great expense.

How to Fix P0463 Engine Code in 2 Minutes [1 DIY Method / Only $11.5]

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