P0462

The P0462 code means the PCM is receiving a lower-than-expected voltage signal from the fuel level sensor. In practical terms, this usually means your fuel gauge is stuck on empty or reads much lower than the actual fuel level. The PCM knows the signal is too low because it falls below the minimum threshold for a valid reading.

This code is most commonly caused by either a short to ground in the wiring between the fuel level sender and the PCM, or a failure inside the sending unit itself. The wiring runs from the top of the fuel tank up to the PCM, and any point where the wire's insulation is damaged and touching metal can create a short to ground. Connector corrosion at the fuel pump module is another frequent culprit, especially on vehicles driven in areas that use road salt.

Before replacing the sending unit, it's worth checking the wiring and connector first, since a wiring repair is much cheaper and easier than dropping the fuel tank. Use a multimeter to check for continuity to ground on the signal wire — if there's a dead short, trace the wire to find the damage. If the wiring checks out, the sending unit itself likely needs replacement.

Severity

Symptoms

• •Fuel gauge always reads empty or near empty
• •Low fuel warning light stays on constantly
• •Distance-to-empty shows very low or zero miles remaining
• •Check Engine light is on
• •Possible false fuel starvation warnings

Likely Causes

Estimated Cost

Common Fixes

1. Repair short to ground in the fuel level sensor wiring
2. Replace the fuel level sending unit
3. Clean or replace the corroded connector at the fuel pump module
4. Replace the fuel pump module assembly if the sender is integrated

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