DTC P0461: Fuel Gauge Sender Unit Circuit Performance Problem: Condition
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Mazda 626. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
DTC is set when Powertrain Control Module (PCM) detects difference in input voltage from fuel gauge sender unit is more than .8 volt/second for 25 seconds. PCM monitors fuel gauge sender unit input voltage difference once per second. This is a continuous monitor. MIL is illuminated when PCM detects malfunction during 2 consecutive drive cycles. Possible cause is faulty fuel gauge sender unit malfunctioning.