OBD-II code · Powertrain (generic)

P0461 Fuel Level Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance

Fuel-level sensor A reads in range but plausibility check fails — value sticks, jumps, or does not match consumption.

Is it safe to drive with P0461?

Usually safe for short trips, but don’t ignore it: the underlying fault can get more expensive over time.

Common causes

  • Most likelyFloat arm sticks
  • Less likelySensor element aged beyond calibration window
  • Less likelySensor mounting loose - signal damping

Repair at a glance

Difficulty
Hard
DIY friendly
Best left to a mechanic
Typical labour
1–4 h
Emissions test
Usually unaffected
Parts involved
Fuel Level Sensor

Code data: OBDex open dataset (CC0). Labour times are typical ranges, not a quote.