Evaporative Emission Control System Malfunction

What it means

The evaporative system traps fuel vapor from the tank in a charcoal canister and later sends it to the engine to be burned. This code means the computer found a general fault in that system, such as a leak or a failed valve.

Symptoms3

• Check engine light, usually with no effect on driving.
• Faint fuel smell around the car at times.
• In some cases, the fuel nozzle clicks off early when refueling.

Possible causes6

• Loose fuel cap or worn cap seal.
• Cracked evaporative system hoses.
• Stuck or faulty purge valve.
• Canister vent valve not closing.
• Cracked or saturated charcoal canister.
• Faulty fuel tank pressure sensor.

How to diagnose and fix5

1. Tighten the fuel cap until it clicks and inspect its seal.
2. Clear the code and see whether it returns after several days of driving.
3. Inspect the hoses around the canister and valves for cracks.
4. Test the purge and vent valves with a scan tool or a vacuum source.
5. Have a smoke test done to pinpoint the leak.

Repair cost

In Saudi riyals; the highlighted part is the expected range for this fault.

A fuel cap or small hose is inexpensive, while a new canister or valves can reach the second tier.

Prices are rough estimates for common cars at independent workshops and vary with the car and the source of the part.

Frequently asked questions