P25DC: Fuel Level Sensor C Stuck

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.

Low severity. Can I keep driving?You can normally keep driving. If it affects the fuel level, do not trust the gauge and refuel earlier than usual.

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

Most 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

What to check, in order

Start with the simplest. You can tick off each step.

Check the connector and wiring
Use the scanner to command the movement and compare the actual position with the requested one.
Use live data to compare the reading with actual conditions
Measure power, ground, and signal
Replace the sensor if the circuit is good

Good to know

Repair difficulty: medium
It affects emissions.

What each character of P25DC means

P: Powertrain: engine and transmission
2: Generic code: same on every make
5: Speed and idle
DC: Specific fault in that system

Frequently asked questions

Can I keep driving with code P25DC?

You can normally keep driving. If it affects the fuel level, do not trust the gauge and refuel earlier than usual.

What causes code P25DC?

The most common causes are: 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.

Related codes

Sources

Values and procedures vary by manufacturer. If it affects brakes, steering, fuel or high voltage, see a professional. Updated: 2026-11-04. How we build these pages.