fuel level and camshaft position sensor questions on 2001 Ford Taurus

[kmlayton]

I have two questions that I hope someone out there can help me with.

For the past few years, my fuel gauge hasn't worked because of a fuel level sensor circuit malfunction (code PO460) according to the diagnostic test. I have driven my 2001 Taurus about 90,000 miles with this problem and I use my odometer as my fuel gauge. Does anyone know if this bad sensor only affects my fuel gauge or does it affect anything else with my car? If it does, then is it worth the expense of getting it fixed? I hear the sensor is in the fuel tank would cost upwards of $300 - $400 with parts and labor.

Secondly, about 6 months ago, I had a chirping noise coming from my engine. A mechanic told me that it was the camshaft position sensor that needed replacing along with the synchronizor. I have not gotten it fixed and the chirping noise has gone away. My car seems to run fine for the most part. It ocassionally misses out when I reach a certain speed. I got a diagonistic test done on my car and nothing came up indicating the sensor was bad. Should I still replace the sensor and synchronizor or leave it alone?

Any thoughts would be appreciated.

[RickMN]

The fuel level sensor will not cause any other problems. The camshaft sensor and synchronizer are known to cause noise issues. Should you replace them if they're quiet? Dunno. How far do you drive? Do you have roadside assistance? How do you handle crisis situations where your car dies on the highway? They can make noise before they go or they can die with no warning.

[Willyum]

The CPS drive unit is an important component. Besides the sensor function, a shaft out the bottom drives the oil pump. If you can't locate more info about it here, try www.tauruscarclub.com . They have extensive info and detailed instructions how to do a DIY part change.