AutoCodes – Pontiac – P0451 Pontiac

P0451 Pontiac Code - Fuel Tank Pressure Sensor Performance

Quick Answer

The fuel tank pressure sensor measures vapor pressure or vacuum in the Evaporative Emission (EVAP) system. Common causes include Faulty Fuel Tank Pressure (FTP) Sensor, Fuel Tank Pressure Sensor harness is open or shorted, Fuel Tank Pressure Sensor circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is Low - monitor the vehicle and repair when practical. The vehicle can usually be driven if no severe symptoms are present, but symptoms should be checked before extended driving.

What it means: P0451 Pontiac indicates Fuel Tank Pressure Sensor Performance.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Fuel Tank Pressure (FTP) Sensor, Fuel Tank Pressure Sensor harness is open or shorted, Fuel Tank Pressure Sensor circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: Low - monitor the vehicle and repair when practical.
Can I drive?: The vehicle can usually be driven if no severe symptoms are present, but symptoms should be checked before extended driving.

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Code Popularity 7,227

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Low (Monitor) (1 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

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Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 28, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes ▶
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0451 Pontiac Description

The fuel tank pressure sensor measures vapor pressure or vacuum in the Evaporative Emission (EVAP) system. The Engine Control Module (ECM) supplies a 5 V reference and a low reference circuit to the fuel tank pressure sensor. The fuel tank pressure sensor signal voltage varies depending on EVAP system pressure or vacuum. The control module also uses this fuel tank pressure signal to determine atmospheric pressure for use in the engine-off small leak test, DTC P0442. Before using this signal as an atmospheric reference, it must first be re-zeroed. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set if the controller is unable to re-zero the fuel tank pressure sensor voltage within a calibrated range during the engine-off small leak test.

OBDII Code P0451 Pontiac - Fuel Tank Pressure Sensor Performance - AutoCodes.com — P0451 Pontiac Code - Fuel Tank Pressure Sensor Performance

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0451 Pontiac?

Faulty Fuel Tank Pressure (FTP) Sensor
Fuel Tank Pressure Sensor harness is open or shorted
Fuel Tank Pressure Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0451 Pontiac?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

User Submitted Video

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0451 Pontiac code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0451 Pontiac Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0451 mean on a Pontiac?

P0451 indicates an issue with the fuel tank pressure sensor's performance, which monitors pressure changes in the evaporative emissions system.

2. What are common symptoms of code P0451 in a Pontiac?

Symptoms may include the check engine light turning on, reduced fuel efficiency, difficulty refueling, or a gasoline smell around the vehicle.

3. What causes the P0451 code in a Pontiac?

Common causes include a faulty fuel tank pressure sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, a clogged EVAP vent valve, or issues with the fuel tank itself.

4. Can a loose gas cap trigger the P0451 code in a Pontiac?

A loose or damaged gas cap typically triggers a different code, but it can indirectly affect the EVAP system and contribute to diagnostic issues.

5. How is the P0451 code diagnosed in a Pontiac?

Technicians use an OBDII scanner, visually inspect the fuel tank pressure sensor and wiring, and may conduct EVAP system pressure tests to pinpoint the issue.

6. Can I drive my Pontiac with the P0451 code?

While the vehicle is usually safe to drive, ignoring the code can lead to increased emissions and possible damage to the EVAP system over time.

7. How much does it cost to fix code P0451 on a Pontiac?

Repair costs vary but replacing the fuel tank pressure sensor can range from $100 to $300, depending on labor and parts.

8. Can I fix the P0451 code on my Pontiac myself?

If you have basic mechanical skills, you can replace the fuel tank pressure sensor or check for wiring issues, but diagnosing the exact cause may require specialized tools.

9. Will clearing the P0451 code solve the problem?

Clearing the code will turn off the check engine light temporarily, but the underlying issue must be addressed to prevent the code from returning.

10. How can I prevent the P0451 code from appearing again on my Pontiac?

Regular maintenance of the EVAP system, inspecting the fuel tank pressure sensor, and ensuring wiring is intact can help prevent this code from recurring.