Diagnostic Aids

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 GMC Sierra, 2004 GMC Cab & Chassis Sierra, 2004 Chevrolet Silverado, and 2004 Chevrolet Cab & Chassis Silverado. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Use the Freeze Frame/Failure Records data in order to locate an intermittent condition. If you cannot duplicate the DTC, the information included in the Freeze Frame/Failure Records data may help in determining the number of miles since the DTC set. The Fail Counter and Pass Counter can also help in determining the number of ignition cycles that the diagnostic test reported a pass and/or fail. Operate the vehicle within the same Freeze Frame conditions, including those for RPM, for engine load, for vehicle speed, for temperature, and for others. This will isolate at what point the DTC failed. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections in Wiring Systems.

DTC P0461 (5.3L Engine)

Step	Action	Yes	No
Schematic Reference: Instrument Cluster Schematics
1	Did you perform the Instrument Cluster Diagnostic System Check?	Go to Step 2	Go to Diagnostic System Check - Instrument Cluster
2	Remove the fuel level sender. Inspect for the following items: The fuel level sensor is stuck, perhaps due to an interference with the fuel strainer. The fuel tank contains foreign material, for instance, ice. Did you find and correct the condition?	Go to Step 4	Go to Step 3
3	Replace the fuel level sensor. Refer to Fuel Level Sensor Replacement (4.8L, 5.3L, and 6.0L Engines) or Fuel Level Sensor Replacement (5.3L (L59) Engine) in Engine Controls - 4.8L, 5.3L and 6.0L Did you complete the replacement?	Go to Step 4	-
4	Use the scan tool in order to clear the DTCs. Operate the vehicle within the Conditions for Running the DTC as specified in the supporting text. Does the DTC reset?	Go to Step 2	System OK