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P0462 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for "Fuel level Sensor Circuit Low Input". This can happen for multiple reasons and a mechanic needs to diagnose the specific cause for this code to be triggered in your situation. Our certified mobile mechanics can come to your home or office to perform the Check Engine Light diagnostic for $154.99 . Once we are able to diagnose the problem, you will be provided with an upfront quote for the recommended fix and receive $50.0 off as a credit towards the repair. All our repairs are backed by our 12-month / 12,000-mile warranty.
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When a vehicle’s PCM (Powertrain Control Module) logs a P0462 trouble code, it’s because its fuel level sensor is no longer taking correct readings.
The way a vehicle consumes fuel in order to make the engine work is far more complicated than most people assume. One integral element in the process is a fuel level sensor. As the name suggests, this sensor is responsible for measuring how much fuel is in the tank.
It is made up of three separate components: a resistor, actuating rod, and a float. That last element rests on top of the fuel. It is attached to an actuating rod which is thin and made out of metal and pivoted at some point. This piece is attached to the resistor. A resistor is supplied with 12 volts of power from the vehicle’s battery and a wire runs from it to the fuel gauge so it can report on the level.
Obviously, it’s vital that you always know how much fuel you have. However, the PCM also needs to know this information so it can adjust the vehicle’s performance accordingly.
If P0462 is logged by the PCM, it’s because the sensor is sending voltage readings that are too low to be accurate.
Despite how simple this fuel-measuring tool is, there could be a number of reasons behind it sending readings of insufficient voltage. These are:
Admittedly, this last cause is extremely rare, but if nothing else makes sense, it’s worth investigating.
There are really only two symptoms you should expect with respect to P0462:
Basically, if the fuel level sensor can’t do its job, you shouldn’t expect accurate readings about how much gas you have left in your tank.
This is actually a fairly simple problem to diagnose. These are the steps involved:
As we just touched on, one common mistake is only addressing a single issue and leaving others. For example, the tank may be damaged and that may be causing a bad reading, but code P0462 means something is wrong with the voltage. Therefore, the tank’s problems should be fixed, but a mechanic needs to continue inspecting.
Code P0462 doesn’t represent a threat to anyone’s safety, but it could end with you on the side of the road because you ran out of gas. Until you resolve this problem, you’ll have no idea of how much longer you have before your tank is on empty.
Repairs for this code would include:
Given how easy it should be to fix this problem – and how affordable those repairs are – there is no reason to risk your vehicle running out of gas.
YourMechanic offers certified mobile mechanics who will come to your home or office to diagnose and repair your vehicle. Get a quote and book an appointment online or speak to a service advisor at 1-800-701-6230.
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