Symptoms
Causes
Seriousness
Can I Still Drive?
Diagnose
Difficulty of Inspecting
Get Additional Help
Fuel level sensors indicate to the vehicle how much fuel your vehicle has left in the tank. On vehicles that have a dual bladder or dual sump fuel tank, you’ll find two fuel level sensors labeled “A” and “B.” This code indicates that there’s an issue with the fuel level sensor “B,” typically that the powertrain control module (PCM) is noticing a high circuit from sensor “B.” This may mean that, especially when compared to fuel level sensor “A,” there is simply too much fuel reading in sensor “B.”
More About the P1349 Code
The P1349 code is a manufacturer-specific code, which means that its meaning is highly dependent on the manufacturer of your vehicle. “Fuel Level Sensor B Circuit High” applies mostly to Ford vehicles in the United States, although it may also apply to Peugeot and Citroen vehicles, especially overseas. Here are a few other common manufacturer definitions:
Your vehicle might indicate that a specific code means something different than what you see on an OBD-II database. Always check the description and match it up with whatever resource you’re using to get the best results.
Some service centers will give you an online estimate to compare. Why drive around Town!?
The first symptom you’ll probably notice is the check engine light, which will often come on even before you notice anything else happening within the vehicle. As you continue to drive, you may notice that the fuel system doesn’t accurately depict how much fuel is in your fuel tank; you may drive significantly more than you would typically be able to do without the fuel going down significantly. If the fuel tank sensor is especially inaccurate, then you might actually run out of fuel.
The most common issues with the P1349 code are with the battery, which may be responsible for faulty circuit readings, as well as issues with the Fuel Pump Sending Unit B. The Fuel Pump Sending Unit B transfers fuel from one side to the other, and if it’s unable to do that, your vehicle might appear not to lose gasoline because it’s only coming from one side of the gas tank. It may also be due to corroded or loose connector pins within the fuel pump or fuel tank or a faulty fuel level sensor. If this is the cause, you’ll likely see other codes that indicate this concern.
The P1349 code can be very serious. As previously mentioned, if you’re unable to manage the P1349 code effectively, you could end up stranded in the middle of nowhere with significantly less fuel than you thought you had. Being unable to accurately gauge your gasoline levels can make it difficult to travel long distances without sputtering out. Treat this code as a very serious one and fix the underlying problem as soon as possible.
If you’re experiencing the P1349 code, then you can generally drive from your home to the local repair shop. It may be a good idea to get a gas can and refill your vehicle’s gasoline tank before you drive your vehicle to the local shop, especially if it’s been a little bit of time since you last topped up. You never know how much gasoline you’ve actually used when your vehicle is throwing the P1349 code, so having a full tank ensures you don’t run out on the way.
The P1349 code can be fairly easy to diagnose if you’re willing to go through all the steps necessary. For example, some people will immediately replace the fuel level sensor, assuming this is the problem. In actuality, the sensor may be completely fine, but the fuel transfer pump is the real problem. Instead, it’s important that you test every element of the fuel level sensor. If you don’t have the time, tools, or interest, it’s best to hand this over to a professional.
The inspection process for the P1349 code can be a bit more difficult. Some of these processes may need slightly more specialized equipment that may not be especially easy to find if you’re a DIYer. If you haven’t been doing this for very long, then you might just want to let an expert take over the process.
Your P1349 code may need an expert’s help if you want to fix it in the most effective way possible. The good news is that there are plenty of local experts who are here to help, and depending on your vehicle, you can get that help very easily.
Start by using KBB to find a repair shop in your area. The wide variety of repair shops locally means that it’s easy to find a repair shop you really love.
Additionally, in some cases, you might experience more than one code. In this instance, check out the KBB OBD-II database, which will explain what’s going on with each individual code.
All recalls are considered serious. Stay safe. Take care of any recalls ASAP. The good news? Recall repairs are free when performed at a local dealer.