P2069 Fuel Level Sensor “B” Circuit Intermittent

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P2069 Fuel Level Sensor “B” Circuit Intermittent

OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description

Fuel Level Sensor "B" Circuit Intermittent

What does that mean?

This generic powertrain/engine diagnostic trouble code typically applies to all OBDII equipped engines, but shows up more often in certain Hyundai, Infiniti, Isuzu, Kia, Mazda, Mercedes Benz, Nissan and Subaru vehicles.

The Fuel Level Sensor (FLS) is usually found mounted in the fuel tank, usually in the top of the fuel tank / fuel pump module. The FLS converts the mechanical fuel level into an electrical signal for the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). Typically, the PCM will then inform other controllers utilizing the vehicle’s data communication bus.

The PCM receives this voltage signal to determine how much fuel it has in the fuel tank, monitoring fuel usage and thereby determining fuel economy. This code is set if this input does not match normal operating voltages stored in the PCM’s memory, even for a second, as this diagnostic trouble code demonstrates. It also looks at the voltage signal from the FLS sensor to determine if it is correct at initial Key On.

P2069 could have been set because of mechanical (incorrect fuel level rationality; refueling the vehicle with the ignition switch "on" or even engine running can do this. Fuel level changes too rapidly which is not normal) or electrical (FLS sensor circuit) issues. These cannot be overlooked in the troubleshooting stage, especially when dealing with an intermittent problem.

Troubleshooting steps may vary depending upon manufacturer, type of FLS sensor and wire colors. Refer to a vehicle specific repair manual to determine the location of the "B" circuit.

Related fuel level sensor B circuit trouble codes include:

  • P2065 Fuel Level Sensor "B" Circuit Malfunction
  • P2066 Fuel Level Sensor "B" Circuit Range/Performance
  • P2067 Fuel Level Sensor "B" Circuit Low Input
  • P2068 Fuel Level Sensor "B" Circuit High Input
  • Severity & Symptoms

    Severity depends upon the failure. If a mechanical failure; severe. If an electrical failure, not as severe, as the PCM can compensate for it. The compensation usually means that the fuel gauge reads Empty or Full all the time.

    Symptoms of a P2069 engine code may include:

  • Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illuminated
  • Decrease in perceived fuel economy
  • Decrease in Distance to Empty mileage
  • Incorrect fuel level on gauge in instrument cluster – always reads wrong
  • Potential Causes

    Typically the causes for this code to set are:

  • Intermittent open in the signal circuit to the FLS sensor – possible
  • Intermittent short to voltage in the signal circuit to the FLS sensor- possible
  • Intermittent short to ground in the signal circuit to the FLS sensor- possible
  • Failed FLS Sensor / sensing arm stuck mechanically – likely
  • Failed PCM – unlikely
  • Diagnostic and Repair Procedures

    A good starting point is always a technical service bulletin (TSB) search for your particular vehicle. The vehicle manufacturer may have a PCM flash/reprogram to cover this issue, and it pays to check on this before you find you’ve gone down a long/wrong path.

    Next, locate the Fuel Level Sensor (FLS) on your particular vehicle. This sensor is usually found mounted in the fuel tank or possibly even in the top of the fuel tank / fuel pump module. Once located, visually inspect the connector and wiring. Look for scraping, rubbing, bare wires, burn spots or melted plastic. Pull the connector apart and carefully inspect the terminals (the metal parts) inside the connector. See if they look burned or have a green tint indicating corrosion. Use electrical contact cleaner and a plastic bristle brush if cleaning of the terminals is needed. Let dry and apply electrical grease where the terminals contact.

    If you have a scan tool, clear the diagnostic trouble codes from memory, and see if P2069 code returns. If it does not, then the connections were most likely your problem.

    This is the most common area of concern for this code, as the fuel tank connections have the greatest number of issues with corrosion.

    If the P2069 code does return, we will need to test the FLS sensor and its associated circuits. With the Key Off, disconnect the electrical connector at the FLS sensor. Connect a Digital Voltmeter (DVOM) black lead to the ground or low reference terminal at the FLS sensor wiring harness connector. Connect the red lead of the Digital Voltmeter to the signal terminal at the FLS sensor wiring harness connector. Turn Key On Engine Off. Check manufacturer’s specifications; voltmeter should read either 12 volts or 5 volts. Wiggle the connections to see if they change. If the voltage is incorrect, repair the power or ground wire, or replace the PCM.

    If the prior test passed, connect one lead of an ohmmeter to the signal terminal at the FLS sensor and the other lead to the ground or low reference terminal at the sensor. The ohmmeter reading should not be zero ohms nor should it be infinite. Check manufacturers specifications on the resistance of the sensor to accurately test the resistance to fuel level (1/2 tank of fuel might read 80 ohms). Wiggle the connector at the Fuel Level Sensor while monitoring the resistance. If the ohmmeter readings do not pass, replace the FLS.

    If all prior tests have passed and you continue to get a P2069, this would most likely indicate a failed FLS sensor, although a failed PCM could not be ruled out until the FLS sensor had been replaced. If unsure, seek assistance from a trained automotive diagnostician. PCMs must be programmed, or calibrated to the vehicle in order to be installed correctly.

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    "Delete Error Code Permanently, Disable DTC Error Code Function for p2069 in the ECU"

    In extreme cases, we even have the option to permanently remove the specific DTC p2069 and disable the function of the specific error code in the ECU. All other fault code functions will then continue to work to protect the engine. This is different from clearing an error code with a diagnostic device. We have the option to permanently remove the function of the specific error code, so that it never comes back. Also emergency running that occurs on the specific error code can be solved in most cases.

    Of course we prefer to first try to solve the cause of the error code, but sometimes the only solution is to permanently disable the DTC function of p2069.

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