P0451: Evaporative Emission Control System Pressure Sensor Range/Performance
Can you still drive? Yes, driving is completely safe. The sensor issue only affects EVAP system monitoring and emissions testing.
What Does P0451 Mean?
Code P0451 means the fuel tank pressure sensor is providing readings that are outside the expected operating range or are not changing as expected under different conditions. The sensor may be reading, but its values do not match what the ECM expects based on current operating conditions such as purge commands and vent valve status.
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An OBD-II scanner lets you read and clear diagnostic trouble codes from your vehicle's computer. Most scanners work with any car made after 1996.
Browse OBD-II Scanners on AmazonCommon Causes
- Failing fuel tank pressure sensor
- Cracked or kinked sensor vacuum hose
- Fuel tank deformation affecting sensor readings
- Intermittent wiring connection to the sensor
- Gas cap not sealing properly
Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Failed emissions test
- Intermittent fuel gauge issues
- No noticeable performance problems
Diagnostic Steps
- 1Monitor FTP sensor readings with a scan tool during various engine conditions
- 2Command the purge valve open and observe if the FTP sensor responds appropriately
- 3Check for kinked or cracked vacuum hose to the FTP sensor
- 4Inspect the gas cap seal and test with a known good cap
- 5Verify sensor reference voltage and ground are stable
- 6Replace the FTP sensor if readings are erratic or out of range
Recommended Parts & Tools
fuel tank pressure sensor
Estimated Repair Cost
| Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Total Repair Cost Range | $75 - $350 |
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Chat with AI About P0451Commonly Affected Vehicles
Related Recalls
1 Active Recall — 2026 Chevrolet Tahoe
The following NHTSA safety recalls have been issued for this vehicle. Contact your dealer to check if your vehicle is affected.
EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
General Motors has decided that certain 2027 Chevrolet Bolt EV, 2025-2026 Cadillac OPTIQ, Chevrolet Colorado, Equinox EV, GMC Canyon, 2026 Buick Enclave, Envision, Cadillac CT5, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Escalade IQ, Escalade IQL, LYRIQ, VISTIQ, Chevrolet Blazer EV, Corvette Convertible, Corvette Coupe, Corvette Convertible E-Ray, Equinox, Silverado 1500, 2500, 3500, Silverado EV, Suburban 1500, Tahoe, Traverse, GMC Acadia, Hummer EV Pickup, Hummer EV SUV, Sierra 1500, 2500, 3500, Sierra EV, Terrain, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles. The radio may not have been set to the correct status to download the electronic owner's manual during production. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, “Occupant Protection.”
Remedy: Dealers will reset the vehicle radio, which will facilitate automatic download of the electronic owner’s manual, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed April 13, 2026. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-866-467-9700, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223. The manufacturer's number for this recall is N252540430. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on February 26, 2026.
Data provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Frequently Asked Questions
What does range/performance mean?
Range/performance means the sensor is providing readings, but those readings are not within the expected range or are not responding correctly to changes in system pressure. The sensor may be drifting, sticking, or responding too slowly.
Can a dented fuel tank cause P0451?
Yes, physical damage to the fuel tank can affect the pressure sensor readings, especially if the tank deformation changes the internal pressure dynamics or damages the sensor mounting.
Community Fix Reports
Community reports are user-submitted and not verified by Auto AI Buddy. Results may vary.
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