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How to fix P0449?

Alton Alexander
By Alton AlexanderUpdated on June 4th, 2022

P0449 is an error code that typically indicates a problem with the evaporative emission control system (EVAP) purge control valve. The EVAP system is responsible for capturing and storing fuel vapors from the fuel tank and then releasing them into the engine to be burned. If the purge control valve is not functioning properly, it can cause fuel vapors to be released into the atmosphere instead of being routed into the engine. P0449 is often caused by a faulty or dirty purge control valve, but it can also be caused by a leak in the EVAP system.

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1. Check the evaporative emission control system (EVAP) for leaks

  1. Verify the system is operational by checking the fuel pressure and temperature.
  2. Verify the system is connected to the vehicle’s vacuum system.
  3. Open the EVAP vent to the atmosphere.
  4. Listen for any leaks.
  5. If there are any leaks, use a vacuum cleaner to suction onto the leaks and turn the vacuum cleaner on.
  6. Wait until the leaks stop, then close the EVAP vent.
  7. Re- check the fuel pressure and temperature.

2. Inspect the EVAP canister vent solenoid for proper operation

  1. Remove the engine cover.
  2. Locate the EVAP canister vent solenoid.
  3. Inspect the valve for proper operation. If the valve is not operating properly, replace the solenoid.

3. Check the EVAP canister purge solenoid for proper operation

  1. Check the power to the EVAP canister purge solenoid. If the solenoid is not receiving power, the problem may be with the wiring or the solenoid itself.
  2. Check for any obstructions in the supply lines to the EVAP canister purge solenoid. If there are any obstructions, they must be removed before testing can continue.
  3. Check for any problems with the purge valve. If the purge valve is not functioning properly, the problem may be with the valve itself, the purge line, or the purge control unit.
  4. If the problem is with the purge valve, replace the valve. If the problem is with the purge line, replace the line. If the problem is with the purge control unit, replace the control unit.

4. Inspect the EVAP canister for blockage

  1. Remove the air filter.
  2. Locate the evap canister and remove the cap.
  3. Inspect the evap canister for blockages.
  4. If there are blockages, remove the blockages using a vacuum cleaner.
  5. Reinstall the cap and air filter.

5. Check the EVAP system for proper operation

  1. Observe the dashboard or instrument panel for any abnormal readings.
  2. If there are no abnormal readings, then proceed to Step 4.
  3. On the engine control module (ECM), press and hold the DTC button for 3 seconds.
  4. Verify that the "EVAP Leak" message is displayed.
  5. If the "EVAP Leak" message is not displayed, then the EVAP system is not working properly and will need to be replaced.

6. Replace the EVAP canister

  1. Remove the front fascia by removing the 10 screws that hold it in place.
  2. Remove the trim around the air intake. You will also need to remove the plastic cover around the gas cap.
  3. Remove the seven screws that hold the EVAP canister in place.
  4. Remove the EVAP canister.
  5. Clean the area around the EVAP canister with a cloth and rubbing alcohol.
  6. Install the new EVAP canister by reversing the steps above.
  7. Replace the trim around the air intake and the plastic cover around the gas cap.
  8. Replace the seven screws that hold the fascia in place.

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