What is an EVAP system?
Modern vehicles contain many systems that take care of things you didn’t even know existed. Take the EVAP (Evaporative Emission Control System), for example. Aside from experienced mechanics, most people have no idea what the EVAP system does and how it works. And even if you know what it does, repairing a potential EVAP problem can be a nightmare.
How does the EVAP system work?
But first, to be able to find a problem with a specific system, you need to understand what it does and how it works. The EVAP system is used to prevent fuel vapors from the fuel tank to escape in the atmosphere. However, that is only a short explanation – there is much more to it. For example, it is also crucial that the system redirects ...
What is the seal on an EVAP tank?
It’s also essential to the proper function of the EVAP system. Each gas cap has a seal that keeps the vapors from escaping feely out of the tank. Besides, it also forms a tight seal, closing the EVAP system and allowing positive pressure to build up in the system.
How reliable is an EVAP system?
Modern EVAP systems are very reliable, at least in the first 5-6 years of the vehicle’s lifetime. However, almost every part of the system can fail eventually. For example, the activated charcoal inside the canister might degrade over time, or one of the valves might start leaking. And usually, there is no telling when this might happen.
Why is EVAP important?
Like most other systems in your vehicle, the EVAP is crucial for proper operation. If not correctly taken care of, many issues can arise regarding the performance of the car. Even worse, the same problems can occur when other systems are faulty, which makes it even harder to find the culprit.
What is a gas cap?
Gas cap. Everybody who owns a car knows what’s a gas cap. However, the gas cap is the most often neglected component on this list. Contrary to popular beliefs, it’s not only used as a lid for the filler neck. It’s also essential to the proper function of the EVAP system.
Can you detect an EVAP error?
Fortunately, you can easily detect a problem with the EVAP system with an OB D-II reader. Here are all the error codes that are EVAP-related as well a brief description and the most common causes:
