System Description

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Pontiac Vibe. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

When running the DTC P0442 Evaporative Emission (EVAP) System Small Leak Detected diagnostic detects evaporative emission system leaks as small as 1.02 mm (0.040 inch). The powertrain control module (PCM) will command the EVAP vent valve ON, CLOSED, and the purge valve and the vacuum pressure switching valve ON, OPEN, with the engine running. This allows engine vacuum into the EVAP system. The PCM then commands the purge valve OFF, CLOSED, sealing the system. The PCM then monitors the fuel tank pressure (FTP) sensor signal in order to determine if there is vacuum decay. A rise or increase just above normal pressure indicates there is a small leak in the evaporative emission system. If the PCM detects the vacuum level was not achieved and vacuum decay was within a specified value a DTC P0442 will set.