Finding The Fuel Tank Pressure Sensor In Your Chevy Silverado

The fuel tank pressure sensor in a Chevy Silverado is an important component that can affect the vehicle's performance and fuel efficiency. Located in the fuel tank, this sensor monitors the pressure and vapour levels, ensuring the fuel system functions optimally. While it is a relatively inexpensive part, accessing it can be challenging, often requiring the removal of the fuel tank or the truck bed. This has led some Chevy Silverado owners to attempt DIY installations or workarounds to avoid costly labour fees.

Fuel tank pressure sensor replacement

If your Chevy Silverado is showing signs of a faulty fuel tank pressure sensor, it is important to get it replaced as soon as possible to ensure optimal fuel efficiency and engine performance. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to replace the fuel tank pressure sensor in your Chevy Silverado:

Step 1: Purchase the Correct Sensor

Make sure to buy the right sensor for your Silverado's specific make and model. You can refer to online resources or consult a mechanic to ensure you get the correct part. Some popular options for the Chevy Silverado include the Duralast EVAP Fuel Tank Pressure Sensor, Santech EVAP Fuel Tank Pressure Sensor, and ACDelco EVAP Fuel Tank Pressure Sensor.

Step 2: Prepare the Vehicle

Park your Silverado on a level surface and engage the parking brake. If necessary, drain the fuel from the tank and raise the vehicle to gain better access to the fuel tank.

Step 3: Access the Fuel Tank

Locate the fuel tank and remove any components that may obstruct your access to it, such as the fuel tank off-road shield, filler neck hose clamp, fuel tank filler neck, tank straps, and insulator strips.

Step 4: Disconnect the Fuel Tank Components

Disconnect the fuel feed and vapor hoses, as well as the electrical connections at the sender. Be careful when handling the electrical connections to avoid any damage.

Step 5: Remove the Old Sensor

Once you have access to the fuel tank, locate the fuel tank pressure sensor. It is usually attached to the fuel sending unit in the fuel tank or on the upper portion of the front of the tank assembly. Carefully remove the old sensor by disconnecting it from its mounting and electrical connections.

Step 6: Install the New Sensor

Take the new fuel tank pressure sensor and connect it to the mounting and electrical connections. Ensure that all connections are secure and properly attached.

Step 7: Reassemble the Fuel Tank Components

Reconnect the fuel feed and vapor hoses, as well as the electrical connections at the sender. Reinstall any components that you removed in Step 3, such as the tank straps, filler neck hose clamp, and fuel tank off-road shield.

Step 8: Lower the Vehicle and Refuel

Once you have confirmed that the new sensor is installed correctly, lower the vehicle and refill the fuel tank. Start the engine and check for any leaks or unusual noises.

It is important to note that working on fuel systems can be dangerous, and it is always recommended to consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure about any part of the process. Additionally, make sure to dispose of any old fuel or components properly and in accordance with local regulations.

Fuel pump replacement

If you're replacing the fuel pump on a Chevy Silverado, there are a few methods you can use. The process will vary depending on the model year of your Silverado.

For a 2001 Silverado, you can access the fuel pump by raising the truck and placing it on jack stands. You'll then need to:

• Take out the three small bolts holding the filler neck to the bed side.
• Disconnect the ground strap from the filler neck to the frame.
• Put a jack under the tank and use a ratchet strap to secure the tank to the jack.
• Remove the evaporative canister from in front of the fuel tank.
• Disconnect the supply and return fuel line near the front of the tank.
• Take out the two strap bolts and remove the straps.
• Lower the tank and remove the wiring harness.
• Cut the old 4-wire end off the truck's harness and crimp the new one that comes with the new pump.

For a 2014-2018 Silverado 1500 with a 5.3L engine, you can access the fuel pump by removing the bed of the truck. You'll need to:

• Disconnect the filler hose from the bed panel.
• Remove the four bolts holding the bed down on the driver's side and loosen the four bolts on the passenger side.
• Put a jack between the bed and frame rail on the driver's side and raise the bed.
• Access the top of the tank and change out the pump.

For a 1998 Silverado, you will need to remove the fuel tank to access the fuel pump and pressure sensor. To do this, you'll need to:

• Drain the fuel from the tank.
• Raise the vehicle.
• Remove the fuel tank off-road shield, if equipped.
• Loosen the filler neck hose clamp at the fuel tank and disconnect the fuel tank filler neck.
• Support the fuel tank and remove the tank straps and insulator strips, if equipped.
• Lower the fuel tank and disconnect the fuel feed and vapor hoses, as well as the electrical connections at the sender.

It's important to note that working on fuel systems can be dangerous due to the flammable nature of fuel. Always take the proper safety precautions and, if you're unsure, have a qualified mechanic perform the work.

Fuel tank removal

To remove the fuel tank from a Chevy Silverado, first drain the fuel from the tank. Then, raise the vehicle and remove the fuel tank off-road shield, if it is equipped. Loosen the filler neck hose clamp at the fuel tank and disconnect the fuel tank filler neck from the tank. Support the fuel tank and remove the tank straps and insulator strips, if equipped. Lower the fuel tank and disconnect the fuel feed and vapor hoses, as well as the electrical connections at the sender.

If you are having trouble removing the fuel tank due to rust or seized bolts, consider taking the bed off the truck. This will make the job significantly easier. If you are worried about rust, get some new bolts from the hardware store to replace the old bed bolts.

Before removing the lock ring, clean the area of any foreign debris to keep the seal area clean and prevent an evap code. The plastic lines connected to the module may come off, but you may need to cut the harness and splice in a new connector. Use a heat gun to shrink the solderless connectors that GM sends.

When disconnecting the fuel lines from the tank, use a special tool that can be purchased at most local parts stores for under $10.

Fuel tank pressure sensor reachability

The fuel tank pressure sensor on a Chevy Silverado is located on the fuel tank itself. The sensor is attached to the fuel sending unit in the fuel tank, which holds the fuel pump.

Depending on the model year of your Chevy Silverado, the reachability of the fuel tank pressure sensor may vary. For a 1998 Chevy Silverado, removing the fuel tank is necessary to access the sensor. Here are the steps to replace the sensor:

• Drain the fuel from the tank.
• Raise the vehicle.
• Remove the fuel tank off-road shield, if equipped.
• Loosen the filler neck hose clamp and disconnect the fuel tank filler neck.
• Support the fuel tank, remove the tank straps and insulator strips, if present.
• Lower the fuel tank.
• Disconnect the fuel feed and vapor hoses, as well as the electrical connections at the sender.
• With the fuel tank removed, you can now reach and replace the fuel tank pressure sensor.

For a 2014 Silverado LTZ 5.3 liter, it is possible to access the sensor without removing the fuel tank or the truck bed. By jacking up the rear end, you can reach the sensor from under the truck and behind the filler cap on top of the tank.

Additionally, for some models, you may be able to reach the sensor by going under the truck and reaching over the gas tank. Removing the driveshaft can provide more working room.

It is important to note that attempting any repairs or maintenance on your vehicle should be done with proper knowledge, tools, and safety precautions. Always refer to a certified mechanic or a professional workshop if you are unsure about the procedure or have any doubts.

Fuel tank pressure sensor cost

The fuel tank pressure sensor in a Chevy Silverado helps control fuel vapour emissions by alerting the car's computer if there's a drop in pressure. If the sensor reports unexpected pressures, the computer will turn on the check engine light. The sensor is attached to the fuel sending unit in the fuel tank.

The cost of replacing a fuel tank pressure sensor in a Chevy Silverado varies depending on the year of the car, but it is typically between $275 and $322. Labor costs are estimated between $181 and $228, while parts are usually priced at around $94.

It is possible to replace the fuel tank pressure sensor yourself, but due to the risk of fire and the potential difficulty of diagnosis, it is recommended that EVAP system issues are handled by a professional technician.

One Chevy Silverado owner reported that they were quoted $40 for the part but that the installation and labour fees were "off the chart" because they needed to remove the bed or gas tank. They were able to find a way to replace the sensor without removing the gas tank or truck bed, but it was a challenging process.

There are a variety of fuel tank pressure sensors available for the Chevy Silverado, with prices varying depending on the brand and model. For example, the Santech EVAP Fuel Tank Pressure Sensor FT0140 is available for purchase, as is the Duralast EVAP Fuel Tank Pressure Sensor SU15227, which comes with a limited-lifetime warranty.

Frequently asked questions