Circuit Description

The engine control module (ECM) monitors the signal circuit of the fuel level sender in order to determine fuel level. The sender consists of a variable resistor that changes resistance based on the fuel level in the tank. The ECM monitors the voltage across the sender resistance in order to determine the fuel level. The ECM uses the signal circuit of the fuel level sender in order to calculate the total remaining fuel, in percent. The ECM sends the fuel level percent via the serial data circuit to the instrument cluster in order to control the fuel gage. The fuel level information is also used for misfire and evaporative emission (EVAP) diagnostics.

This diagnostic tests for an intermittent fuel level sender signal. If a change in fuel level is detected DTC P0442 is aborted due to a refueling event. A refueling event test is executed to confirm that a refueling event has occurred. If refueling is confirmed, the test is considered passing. Otherwise, the DTC will set indicating an intermittent signal problem