The P0496 OBD2 code indicates an issue in your evaporative emission control system. It’s one of those codes that can seem to pop up out of nowhere because it’s often not accompanied by any drivability symptoms. This can lure some drivers into thinking they can ignore this code—not a good idea with any diagnostic trouble code.
The P0496 code isn’t serious itself, but it can contribute to significant engine damage if left untreated. The most detrimental aspect of a faulty EVAP flow is that it can throw off the air-to-fuel ratio. Over time, this can lead to significant engine damage.
The P0496 trouble code is your chance to address a relatively minor EVAP system issue before it becomes something major. Read on below to learn more about what can trigger this code and how you can diagnose and repair it.
P0496 Code Definition
EVAP (evaporative emission) Flow During a Non-Purge Condition
What Does P0496 Mean?
The evaporative emission control (or EVAP) system in your car seals off the fuel system. This prevents vapors from escaping into the atmosphere, lowering the harmful compounds in the emissions. A correctly functioning EVAP system is necessary to pass any state emission test.
Gasoline evaporates quickly. If fuel vapors are allowed to leak out of your engine, hydrocarbons escape even when your engine is turned off. These compounds form smog once they react with the outside air. Fuel vapors that escape are wasted, too, so it’s bad for your wallet as well as the environment.
The P0496 trouble code activates when your system detects a problem with the EVAP system’s purge flow. This means the purge solenoid valve failed the periodic test performed by the engine to check if it’s functioning correctly.
While this is a generic powertrain code and could apply to any vehicle, it’s more common in some models than others. It’s found particularly often in GM vehicles, as well as Hondas, Kias, and Mazdas.
One symptom often caused by the P0496 trouble code is an air to fuel ratio that’s too rich. This means there’s too much fuel in relation to the amount of air. While you won’t notice any drivability symptoms from this, over time it can cause damage to the engine.
What Are The Symptoms Of The P0496 Code?
You may not notice any drivability symptoms with the P0496. The most common symptoms include:
- Activation of the check engine light
- Engine running rich
- Rough starts
What Are The Causes Of P0496?
- Faulty purge valve
- Faulty vent solenoid or vent solenoid valve
- Leaks in the EVAP system
- Faulty electrical connections
- Blocks in EVAP system or vapor canister
- Failed fuel pressure sensor
- Shorts in the electrical circuits
- Leaking EVAP system holds (Hyundai specific)
- Faulty purse flow sensor (especially common in Kias and Mazdas)
How Serious Is The P0496 Code?
Generally speaking, the P0496 OBD2 code is of low severity. You’ll likely experience no driving issues and can safely drive your car until you’re able to repair it. Keep in mind that running rich for too long can damage your engine, so you should make repairs as soon as possible.
How To Diagnose The P0496 Code
Tools you’ll need:
- OBD2 scan tool
- Digital multimeter
- Use your OBD2 scanner to reset all codes, then test drive your vehicle. Read the freeze frame data to determine the conditions under which the code was set.
- Turn on your ignition without starting your engine, then seal your EVAP system with the Seal/Purge function. Use a multimeter to watch the fuel tank pressure sensor. If it’s reading a higher value than it should, the purge solenoid valve is not functioning properly. You can find the correct reading for the fuel tank pressure sensor in your manual.
- Check for leaks in all the vacuum hoses of the EVAP system. Make sure to feel for hidden damage and leaks on any parts of the hoses you can’t see. Replace any damaged ones you find, and make sure they’re all connected securely.
- Check your fuel cap to make sure it’s undamaged and tightly secured.
- Read the fuel tank pressure with your OBD2 scan tool. Remove the gas cap. If the sensor still registers a vacuum after you’ve removed the gas cap, the fuel tank pressure sensor is faulty.
Common Mistakes To Avoid While Diagnosing The P0496 Code
Some mechanics replace the EVAP canister as soon as this code triggers without checking for other potential problems. Vacuum leaks and faulty electrical connections can make it seem like the canister is bad when it’s perfectly fine. Conduct a full diagnosis before replacing any components.
What Should You Do To Fix The Code P0496?
- If the code doesn’t return after you clear the codes, it may have been an isolated failure. Keep your eye on the check engine light over the next couple weeks to see if it comes back. If it doesn’t, you don’t need to make any repairs.
- Replace any damaged hoses found during your diagnosis.
- Replace the fuel tank pressure sensor if it failed the test in step 5 of the diagnosis above.
- Clear codes and test drive your car again. If P0496 returns, replace your purge solenoid valve.
- If the code is still there after taking the above steps, take your vehicle to a mechanic for further diagnosis. They’ll likely run a smoke test to find EVAP leaks undetectable to the naked eye. Should that not resolve the issue, it may be an internal electrical problem.
Tips To Avoid P0496 In The Future
Avoiding small vacuum leaks is an easy way to prevent a whole host of diagnostic trouble codes, including P0496. Make sure you always put your gas cap back on tightly after you fill your tank. Avoid leaks in the hoses by making sure they’re not touching other components that could cause damage. An anti-corrosion treatment on your engine can also extend the life of your vacuum hoses.
Read more: P0008 Code: Meaning, Symptoms, Causes, Diagnostics, and Fixes
