Fault code P0455 is called “Evaporative Emission (EVAP) Control System Leak Detected (gross leak)” but in different programs it may be called differently. This fault designation applies to all vehicles equipped with OBD-II.
Technical description and explained code P0455
This Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is a generic powertrain code. Error P0455 is considered a general code because it applies to all makes and models of vehicles. Although the specific repair steps may vary slightly depending on the model.
This code indicates that part of the EVAP control system is no longer functioning properly. The EVAP system consists of many parts, including (but not limited to) the tank cap, fuel lines, carbon tank, purge valve, and others.
The emission control system (EVAP) prevents fuel vapor from escaping from the vehicle’s fuel system. Fuel vapors are routed through hoses to a carbon canister for storage. Later, when the engine is running, the purge control valve opens, allowing fuel vapors to be drawn in under vacuum.
The EVAP canister purge is controlled by a valve that allows fuel vapors to be drawn in due to the vacuum created by engine operation. They flow from the fuel tank into the engine for combustion, rather than escaping into the atmosphere.
A vacuum switch is used to detect the presence of flow. If the PCM realizes that the gasoline vapor recovery system is not sealed, code P0455 is set. This may indicate loose (burst) tubes, a cracked absorber housing, or a leaking fuel tank lid.
Symptoms of vehicle malfunctions
The main signal that an error P0455 has occurred is the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is also known as the CheckEngine Light.
It can also be warning signs such as:
- Activation of the Check engine indicator on the instrument panel.
- Possible noticeable fuel odor caused by vapor emission.
A tightly closed fuel tank cap can sometimes be the cause of code P0455.
Factors that can cause this error code
The error code P0455 can mean that one or more of the following problems have occurred:
- Loose or improperly installed gas tank cap.
- The EVAP line or tank is torn or damaged.
- Damaged vent o-ring.
- Defective vent valve.
- Problems with the vent valve.
- Defective leak detection pump.
How to fix or reset OBD-2 code P0455
Some suggested steps for troubleshooting and fix the error code P0455:
- Correct the gas tank cap.
- Repair damaged EVAP or tank lines.
- Replace a damaged vent o-ring.
- Replace vent valve if necessary.
- Repair or repair a restriction in the Evap or tank line.
- Check the purge valve.
- Replace or repair leak detection pump.
Diagnose and repair of problems
The Engine Control Module (ECM) checks the EVAP system under the following conditions:
- Large and small leaks.
- Excessive vacuum.
- Purge flow under uncontrolled conditions.
- Faults in fuel level and pressure sensor – EVAP.
- Fuel tank pressure sensor malfunctions.
- To determine EVAP vacuum/pressure level.
The ECM monitors the fuel tank pressure sensor. The ECM module instructs both the EVAP solenoid valve and the EVAP air valve to turn on. When the proper conditions are met to create a vacuum in the engine of the EVAP system.
The ECM orders the EVAP solenoid valve to turn off when the system reaches the specified vacuum level. This test verifies that the EVAP system vacuum can be achieved.
Failure to reach vacuum may be caused by a large leak or flow restriction and result in the appearance of fault P0455.
On which vehicles does this problem occur most frequently
Fault code P0455 can occur on different vehicles but there are statistics on which brands this occurs most often. Here is a list of some of them:
- Audi (A4, TT)
- BMW
- Cadillac (Escalade)
- Chevrolet (Impala, Silverado, Tahoe, Tracker, TrailBlazer)
- Chrysler (Crossfire, Town and Country, Voyager)
- Daewoo (Gentra)
- Dodge (Caliber, Caravan, Dakota, Neon, RAM, Stratus)
- Ford (Escape, Explorer, Focus)
- Honda
- Hummer
- Hyundai (Avante, Elantra, Santa Fe, Tiburon)
- Infiniti
- Jeep (Grand Cherokee, Wrangler)
- Kia
- Lexus (GS300, GX470)
- Mazda (3, 6, CX-7)
- Mercedes-Benz (ML350, W164)
- Mitsubishi (Galant, Lancer, Montero, Outlander, Pajero)
- Nissan (Murano)
- Porsche (Cayenne)
- Saab
- Suzuki (Grand Vitara)
- Toyota (Corolla, Prius)
- Volkswagen (Golf, Passat, Touareg)
- Volvo (S60)
Fault code P0455 can sometimes be found with other errors. The most common are the following: P0172, P0175, P0440, P0441, P0442, P0443, P0444, P0445, P0446, P0447, P0448, P0449, P0450, P0451, P0452, P0453, P0454, P0456, P0457, P0458, P0459, P1684.
