P0461 on Chevrolet
Fuel Level Sensor 'A' Circuit Range/Performance
P0461 on Chevrolet vehicles indicates fuel level sensor 'a' circuit range/performance. Au7o has documented this code across 2 Chevrolet models — most commonly on Colorado, HHR. P0461 means the powertrain control module sees a fuel-level sensor signal that is implausible or doesn't change as expected — for instance, the reading stays fixed while fuel is consumed, or it moves erratically. The fuel level sensor (sending unit) in the tank reports how much fuel remains, and this data is also used by the EVAP system for certain leak monitors. Typically this only causes an inaccurate fuel gauge or skipped emissions tests rather than drivability problems. It is a low-urgency issue but worth fixing for an accurate gauge. Typical repair costs on Chevrolet range from $150 to $900, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of P0461
- •Faulty fuel level sensor / sending unit in the tank
- •Worn or dirty sending-unit resistor card or float
- •Wiring or connector problems to the sending unit
- •Corrosion at the fuel pump module connector
- •Stuck or damaged float arm
- •Poor ground for the sensor circuit
- •Instrument cluster or PCM fault (less common)
P0461 on Chevrolet by Model
Chevrolet Colorado(1 issue)
- Fuel Level Sensor Failure Causing Inaccurate Gauge and Empty Reading2004-2012
A common first-generation Colorado problem is failure of the fuel level sending unit, causing the gauge to read empty, fluctuate, or become inaccurate even with fuel in the tank. Owners often see the low fuel light come on unexpectedly or the gauge drop after fill-up. GM trucks of this era had widespread sender wear issues, and Colorado complaints and forum reports show the same pattern.
Chevrolet HHR(1 issue)
- Inaccurate / Fluctuating Fuel Gauge (Fuel Level Sensor)2006-2011
HHR owners frequently report the fuel gauge reading incorrectly or bouncing around unpredictably while driving, sometimes stuck on empty or full. The cause is the fuel level sensor inside the tank: the contact fingers that slide across the resistor card wear out or get fouled by fuel deposits, sending an erratic signal to the gauge. Bad readings can also coincide with ABS/traction warnings due to shared wiring or BCM issues.
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View P0461 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0461 mean on Chevrolet?▼
P0461 stands for "Fuel Level Sensor 'A' Circuit Range/Performance." P0461 means the powertrain control module sees a fuel-level sensor signal that is implausible or doesn't change as expected — for instance, the reading stays fixed while fuel is consumed, or it moves erratically. The fuel level sensor (sending unit) in the tank reports how much fuel remains, and this data is also used by the EVAP system for certain leak monitors. Typically this only causes an inaccurate fuel gauge or skipped emissions tests rather than drivability problems. It is a low-urgency issue but worth fixing for an accurate gauge. On Chevrolet specifically, this code is documented across 2 models.
What causes P0461 on Chevrolet vehicles?▼
Common causes on Chevrolet: Faulty fuel level sensor / sending unit in the tank, Worn or dirty sending-unit resistor card or float, Wiring or connector problems to the sending unit, Corrosion at the fuel pump module connector, Stuck or damaged float arm. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P0461 on a Chevrolet?▼
Repair costs on Chevrolet range from $150 to $900, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Chevrolet models have P0461 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0461 on 2 Chevrolet models: Colorado, HHR.