Code
B0120
Generic
B — Body
Fluid Reservoir Level Sensor E
Views:
UK: 21
EN: 31
RU: 22
AI status
Completed
Completed
100%
Causes
- Open or shorted wiring or connector to sensor
- Corroded or loose connector pins
- Failed level sensor or internal float/jaw mechanism
- Low or contaminated fluid preventing proper float action
- Blown fuse or poor ground for circuit
- Intermittent connection from chafing or water ingress
Symptoms
- Fluid level warning lamp or message for reservoir E illuminated
- Incorrect or no level indication on dash/gauge
- Intermittent or persistent fault lamp related to body/control module
- Associated system limitations (depending on reservoir: reduced washer function, steering assist warnings, etc.)
- Possible diagnostic trouble codes stored for related modules
What to check
- Read freeze frame and full DTC list with a scan tool; note history and status
- Visually inspect reservoir fluid level and condition
- Inspect sensor connector for corrosion, bent pins, water, or contamination
- Check harness for obvious damage, rubbing, or kinks between sensor and module
- Verify applicable fuse(s) and main body/ECU power and ground
- Backprobe sensor connector and observe live data or voltage with key on
Signal parameters
- Typical sensor types: switch (open/closed) or resistive/voltage output (0–5 V).
- Switch-style expected: continuity in one position (float up/down) and open in the other.
- Voltage-style expected: approximately 0.0–5.0 V range — many systems show near 0 V when empty and near 4–5 V when full (manufacturer dependent).
- Resistance-style: variable ohms based on float position; expect a stable change when float moves (compare to service data).
- No communication or a stuck/unchanging value indicates an open or shorted circuit or failed sensor.
Diagnostic algorithm
- Connect a diagnostic scan tool. Read and record DTC B0120 and any related codes, freeze frame data, and live sensor values.
- Visually inspect the reservoir, sensor, harness, and connector for damage, corrosion, fluid intrusion, or disconnection. Top up fluid if very low and clean any contamination.
- Check related fuses and vehicle grounds. Repair any blown fuses and restore grounds before retesting.
- With ignition ON (engine off), backprobe the sensor connector. Measure reference voltage (if used), signal voltage, and ground continuity. Compare to expected ranges in Signal Parameters.
- If switch-type, check for continuity across the sensor terminals while moving the float. If no change, replace sensor or remove reservoir to inspect float mechanism.
- If voltage/resistance-type, measure resistance or voltage over float travel. If values do not change or are out of range, suspect sensor or wiring fault.
- Perform a wiring continuity and short-to-power/ground test between sensor connector and the control module pin. Repair broken wires or shorts.
- If wiring and connector are good but sensor still out of range, replace Fluid Reservoir Level Sensor E with OE or equivalent part and clear codes.
- After repair, clear DTCs and perform a road/operation test or cycle key to confirm the code does not return and live data behaves correctly.
- If the fault returns after correct sensor and wiring repair, consider module input diagnostics or consult manufacturer-specific service data.
Likely causes
- Corroded/loose electrical connector at sensor
- Damaged wiring harness (broken wire, short to ground/power)
- Failed sensor (float stuck, internal electronics failed)
- Reservoir fluid level extremely low or contaminated
- Poor ground at reservoir or nearby body ground point
Fault status
Status
Fault detected: Fluid Reservoir Level Sensor E circuit abnormal (open/short/intermittent/out-of-range). Inspection and repair of sensor, wiring, connector, fuses, and grounds recommended.
Repair difficulty: Medium
Diagnostic time: 0.5-2.0 hours
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