Powertrain, generic (extended)

P25DC Fuel Level Sensor C Stuck

Check engine lightOn

EmissionsRelevant

Drive cycleRequired

Limp modeNo

P25DC is set when a third fuel level sender, sender C, keeps returning the same reading although the engine has consumed a meaningful amount of fuel. Such a third input exists only on vehicles with extra or divided tanks, for example saddle tanks or auxiliary tanks on trucks. No manufacturer documents P25DC publicly. Ford's 2020–2023 gasoline OBD summary describes the equivalent check for senders A and B (P25B0 to P25B2): the PCM adds up injected fuel as a share of tank capacity and compares it with the sender movement, allowing a 25 to 60 % mismatch depending on where the reading is frozen. CARB requires a rationality check for a stuck fuel level sensor, since the level also enables the evaporative leak test. Electrical faults on sender C have their own codes, P25D7 and P25D9 to P25DB. The gauge or range display stops moving.

Likely causes

Float arm of sender C caught on a baffle, pump bracket or tank wall

Worn spot on the sender C resistor track holding the wiper at one value

Fuel transfer to or from tank C not working, so its level really does not change

Symptoms

Fuel gauge or range display frozen over a long distance
Risk of running out of fuel despite a displayed reserve
Check engine lamp on

Repair estimate

DifficultyMediumDIY possible

Parts and labour€100–700

Time1–4 h

Typical range across vehicles; the real cost depends on what the testing finds.

Parts involved

fuel level sensor cfuel tank

Related codes

P25D7 P25D8 P25DB P25B0 P25B2 P0461

References: fordservicecontent.com, law.cornell.edu.