GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

System Description

The fuel tank pressure (FTP) sensor measures air pressure or vacuum in the evaporative emission (EVAP) system. The control module supplies a 5-volt reference and a low reference circuit to the FTP sensor. The FTP sensor signal voltage varies depending on EVAP system pressure or vacuum. The controller uses this FTP signal to determine atmospheric pressure for use in the engine OFF small leak test, P0442. This DTC will set if the control module detects an intermittent signal from the FTP that would prevent the engine-off small leak test, P0442, from running.

DTC Descriptor

This diagnostic procedure supports the following DTC:

DTC P0454 Fuel Tank Pressure (FTP) Sensor Circuit Intermittent

Conditions for Running the DTC

    • DTC P0454 runs only when the engine-off natural vacuum small leak test, P0442, executes.
    • This test can run once per engine-off period. The length of the test can be up to 40 minutes.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

If, during the engine-off natural vacuum small leak test, P0442, the powertrain control module (PCM) detects an abrupt FTP signal change, other than a refueling event, this DTC will set.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

    • The control module illuminates the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) when the diagnostic runs and fails.
    • The control module records the operating conditions at the time the diagnostic fails. The control module stores this information in the Freeze Frame/Failure Records.

Conditions for Clearing the MIL/DTC

    • The control module turns OFF the MIL after 3 consecutive ignition cycles that the diagnostic runs and does not fail.
    • A current DTC, Last Test Failed, clears when the diagnostic runs and passes.
    • A history DTC clears after 40 consecutive warm-up cycles if no failures are reported by this or any other emission related diagnostic.
    • Clear the MIL and DTC with a scan tool.

Diagnostic Aids

Scan tool output controls, snapshot, and plot functions can help detect erratic sensor response. To look at the sensor signal under vacuum conditions, use snapshot and the purge/seal function to capture data while commanding purge to 20 percent, then plot the data to look for non-linear sensor operation. A similar inspection can be done for the pressure side of the sensor range by applying pressure with the J 41413-200 Evaporative Emissions System Tester (EEST) while taking a snapshot. DO NOT exceed 5 inches H2O when applying pressure.

Test Description

The number below refers to the step number on the diagnostic table.

  1. Sealing the system will allow normal pressure in the EVAP system to preload the sensor. This will help put the sensor in a range that is more sensitive, making the test more accurate.

Step

Action

Yes

No

Schematic Reference: Evaporative Emissions Hose Routing Diagram and Engine Controls Schematics

Connector End View Reference: Powertrain Control Module Connector End Views or Engine Controls Connector End Views

1

Did you perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle?

Go to Step 2

Go to Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle

2

Are DTCs P0442, P0446, P0452, P0453, or P0651 also set?

Go to Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List - Vehicle

Go to Step 3

3

Inspect for an intermittent and for a poor connection at the fuel tank pressure (FTP) sensor. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections .

Did you find and correct the condition?

Go to Step 5

Go to Step 4

4

Replace the FTP sensor. Refer to Fuel Tank Pressure Sensor Replacement .

Did you complete the replacement?

Go to Step 5

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5

Observe the Capture Info with a scan tool.

Are there any DTCs that have not been diagnosed?

Go to Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List - Vehicle

System OK