EVAP DIAGNOSIS

The OBD II Evaporative Emissions (EVAP) monitor checks for airflow from the EVAP canister to the engine, and checks for
fuel vapor leaks from the sealed fuel system. It does this once a drive cycle by applying vacuum or pressure to the fuel tank,
vapor lines and charcoal canister.

If the EVAP monitor detects no airflow when the EVAP canister purge valve is opened, it set a code

If the EVAP monitor detects a vapor leak that equals or exceeds the amount of air that would pass through a hole 0.040 inches
in diameter (0.020 inches for 2000 and up model year vehicles), it will set a code.

A loose or missing gap cap can sometimes trigger an EVAP fault code depending when the tank is filled and when the EVAP
monitor runs. The cure here is to tighten or replace the fuel filler cap.

NOTE: Replacement caps must be the same type as the original (usually nonvented) and fit tightly to prevent any vapor leaks.

TIP: If you find a P0440 code that indicates a fuel vapor leak, finding a small leak can be a challenge. Check the fuel filler cap
first to rule out that possibility. If the cap is okay, inspect the vapor lines, EVAP canister and purge hose for loose or damaged
hoses. Don't see any problems? You probably won't because tiny air leaks and pinholes can be extremely difficult to see. To
find these kind of leaks you will probably have to use a "smoke machine" that pumps smoke into the lines. This will make it
easier to find small pinhole leaks. The cure then is to replace the hose.

MODE 06 SCAN TOOL DIAGNOSTICS

Most scan tools can access a menu called "Mode 06." You will usually find this by choosing "global" or "generic" OBD II on the
scan tool main menu rather than entering the vehicle year, make and model. When you go to the Mode 06 menu, you can see
the OBD II self-test data for all the EVAP components and can tell at a glance whether they are operating in or out of range. If
a component is acting up, it will FAIL the self-test -- but it may not set a DTC unless all the other failure criteria for the DTC
have also been met. This may take several drive cycles to occur. See the Mode 06 Diagnostics section in this guide for more
information on this subject.

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