P0464: Fuel Level Sensor Circuit Intermittent

What Does The P0464 Code Mean?

This generic powertrain/engine diagnostic trouble code typically applies to all OBDII equipped engines, but shows up more often in certain Hyundai, Infiniti, Isuzu, Kia, Mazda, Mercedes Benz, Nissan and Subaru vehicles.

The Fuel Level Sensor (FLS) is usually found mounted in the fuel tank, usually in the top of the fuel tank / fuel pump module. The FLS converts the mechanical fuel level into an electrical signal for the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). Typically, the PCM will then inform other controllers utilizing the vehicle’s data communication bus.

The PCM receives this voltage signal to determine how much fuel it has in the fuel tank, monitoring fuel usage and thereby determining fuel economy. This code is set if this input does not match normal operating voltages stored in the PCM’s memory, even for a second, as this diagnostic trouble code demonstrates. It also looks at the voltage signal from the FLS sensor to determine if it is correct at initial Key On.

P0464 could have been set because of mechanical (incorrect fuel level rationality; refueling the vehicle with the ignition switch “on” or even engine running can do this. Fuel level changes too rapidly which is not normal) or electrical (FLS sensor circuit) issues. These cannot be overlooked in the troubleshooting stage, especially when dealing with an intermittent problem.

Troubleshooting steps may vary depending upon manufacturer, type of FLS sensor and wire colors.

Related fuel level sensor circuit trouble codes include:

• P0460 – Fuel Level Sensor Circuit Malfunction
• P0461 – Fuel Level Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
• P0462 – Fuel Level Sensor Circuit Low Input
• P0463 – Fuel Level Sensor Circuit High Input

What Are The Symptoms Of The P0464 Code?

Symptoms of a P0464 engine code may include:

• 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

What Are The Potential Causes Of The P0464 Code?

Typically the causes for this code to set are:

• Intermittent open in the signal circuit to the FLS sensor – possible
• Intermittent short to voltage in the signal circuit to the FLS sensor- possible
• Intermittent short to ground in the signal circuit to the FLS sensor- possible
• Failed FLS Sensor / sensing arm stuck mechanically – likely
• Failed PCM – unlikely

How Serious Is This P0464 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.

How Can You Fix The P0464 Code?

Step 1

A good starting point is always a technical service bulletin (TSB) search for your particular vehicle. The vehicle manufacturer may have a PCM flash/reprogram to cover this issue, and it pays to check on this before you find you’ve gone down a long/wrong path.

Step 2

Next, locate the Fuel Level Sensor (FLS) on your particular vehicle. This sensor is usually found mounted in the fuel tank or possibly even in the top of the fuel tank / fuel pump module. Once located, visually inspect the connector and wiring. Look for scraping, rubbing, bare wires, burn spots or melted plastic. Pull the connector apart and carefully inspect the terminals (the metal parts) inside the connector. See if they look burned or have a green tint indicating corrosion. Use electrical contact cleaner and a plastic bristle brush if cleaning of the terminals is needed. Let dry and apply electrical grease where the terminals contact.

Step 3

If you have a scan tool, clear the diagnostic trouble codes from memory, and see if P0464 code returns. If it does not, then the connections were most likely your problem.

This is the most common area of concern for this code, as the fuel tank connections have the greatest number of issues with corrosion.

Step 4

If the P0464 code does return, we will need to test the FLS sensor and its associated circuits. With the Key Off, disconnect the electrical connector at the FLS sensor. Connect a Digital Voltmeter (DVOM) black lead to the ground or low reference terminal at the FLS sensor wiring harness connector. Connect the red lead of the Digital Voltmeter to the signal terminal at the FLS sensor wiring harness connector. Turn Key On Engine Off.

Check manufacturer’s specifications; voltmeter should read either 12 volts or 5 volts. Wiggle the connections to see if they change. If the voltage is incorrect, repair the power or ground wire, or replace the PCM.

Step 5

If the prior test passed, connect one lead of an ohmmeter to the signal terminal at the FLS sensor and the other lead to the ground or low reference terminal at the sensor. The ohmmeter reading should not be zero ohms nor should it be infinite. Check manufacturers specifications on the resistance of the sensor to accurately test the resistance to fuel level (1/2 tank of fuel might read 80 ohms). Wiggle the connector at the Fuel Level Sensor while monitoring the resistance. If the ohmmeter readings do not pass, replace the FLS.

Step 6

If all prior tests have passed and you continue to get a P0464, this would most likely indicate a failed FLS sensor, although a failed PCM could not be ruled out until the FLS sensor had been replaced. If unsure, seek assistance from a trained automotive diagnostician. PCMs must be programmed, or calibrated to the vehicle in order to be installed correctly.

Recommended Parts

Below are some recommended auto parts to help you address the trouble code affecting your vehicle and get it running smoothly again:

>>> Fuel Level Sensor
>>> Twippo 372Pcs Waterproof Wire Connectors Kit
>>> Autel Scanner MaxiCOM MK808S
>>> KAIWEETS Digital Multimeter

Note: During the purchasing process, please check carefully whether the part you want to buy fits your car!

Reference Sources

P0464 Fuel Level Sensor Circuit Intermittent, OBD-Codes.