P0451 – EVAP Pressure Sensor Range/Performance
The fuel tank pressure (FTP) sensor is reporting values outside of what the PCM expects. This can be due to wiring, sensor failure, or an EVAP system issue.
P0453 – EVAP Pressure Sensor High Input
The PCM is seeing a consistently high voltage from the FTP sensor (often >4.5V), which usually indicates a short to voltage, faulty sensor, or wiring issue.
Common causes on the STS 3.6:
- Faulty fuel tank pressure (FTP) sensor – this is mounted on top of the fuel tank (part of the EVAP system).
- Wiring/connector issues – damaged or corroded wiring to the FTP sensor.
- PCM reference/ground issue – less common, but worth checking if both codes appear together.
- Rarely: actual fuel tank/charcoal canister pressure problem – but usually it’s electrical
How to diagnose:
- Check live data with a scan tool – look at FTP sensor readings (should be around 1.5V with key on, engine off, and fluctuate slightly with tank pressure changes).
- Inspect wiring and connector at the FTP sensor – look for corrosion, broken wires, or a loose fit.
- Backprobe the sensor – verify 5V reference, ground, and signal return voltages.
- If wiring is good and voltages check out, the sensor itself is the most likely failure point
Fix:
- Replace the fuel tank pressure sensor if it’s out of range or stuck high.
- Clear codes and retest.