P0462 — Fuel Level Sensor Circuit Low Input
Can drive — fix at your convenience.
What P0462 means
P0462 means the fuel level sensor circuit is sending a signal that's too low, often reading as if the tank is empty. The fuel level sensor in the tank reports how much fuel is present to the gauge and computer. A low signal usually points to a sensor, wiring, or grounding issue rather than a problem with how the engine runs.
Common symptoms
- Check Engine light is on
- Fuel gauge reads empty or very low incorrectly
- Fuel gauge stuck at the bottom
- Low fuel warning light stays on
- Inaccurate driving range estimate
Common causes
- Faulty fuel level sensor (sending unit)
- Short to ground in the fuel level circuit
- Damaged wiring or corroded connector
- Poor ground connection at the sensor
- Faulty instrument cluster
Typical repair cost
$100 – $400
Varies by vehicle and root cause.
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep driving with a P0462 code?
Yes, it's generally safe. Just remember the gauge may show less fuel than you really have, so keep track of your mileage and refuel early so you're not caught off guard.
How much does it cost to fix a P0462?
Typical repairs run about $100 to $400. A wiring or ground repair is cheaper, while replacing the in-tank fuel level sensor costs more since the tank usually needs to be accessed.
Is a P0462 code serious?
No, it's a low-severity code. It mainly affects your fuel gauge accuracy, not drivability. Still, it's worth repairing so you don't accidentally run the tank dry.
What's the difference between P0462 and P0463?
P0462 means the signal is too low (reads near empty), while P0463 means it's too high (reads near full). Both point to the fuel level sensor circuit, just in opposite directions.