Checking EVAP canister

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 25 other vehicles, including the 2002 Volkswagen Cabrio, 2001 Volkswagen Cabrio, 2000 Volkswagen Cabrio, 1999 Volkswagen Jetta, and 1999 Volkswagen Golf. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove air cleaner.

Disconnect purge hose -1- from EVAP canister purge regulator valve -6- and install VAG 1390 (or US8026 hand vacuum pump) to hose.

Fig 1: Checking EVAP Canister Purge Regulator Valve (Vehicles Up To 1996)
Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA, INC.
Disconnect breather hose -3- (from fuel tank) at EVAP canister and plug port on canister.
Operate VAG 1390 (or US8026 hand vacuum pump) several times.
- Vacuum must not build up

If vacuum builds up:

Check breather connection -5- on EVAP canister -4- for contamination. Clean as necessary.
Check EVAP canister purge regulator valve -6- for continuity and replace if necessary. See EVAP CANISTER PURGE REGULATOR VALVE -N80-, CHECKING, VEHICLES UP TO 1996 .
Remove plug from canister port.