Evaporative Emission System Leak Detected Small Leak
Table of contents
P0442 FORD Possible Causes
- Missing or loose fuel cap
- Incorrect fuel filler cap used
- Fuel filler cap remains open or fails to close
- Foreign matter caught in fuel filler cap
- EVAP canister or fuel tank leaks
- EVAP system hose leaking
- Fuel tank leaking
How do I fix code P0442 FORD?
Check the “Possible Causes” listed above. Visually inspect the related wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and look for broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded connector’s pins.
Tech Notes
- The P0442 code means that the control module has detected a small leak in the Evaporative Emission (EVAP). Loose fuel tank filler cap is the most common cause that triggers the P0442 code.
- There is a factory service bulletin for the following Ford vehicles:
- 1997-2000 Ford Contour
- 1997-2002 Ford Escort
- 1997-2003 Ford Crown Victoria
- 1997-2003 Ford Mustang
- 1997-2003 Ford Taurus
- 1998-2003 Ford Escort ZX2
- 2000-2003 Ford Focus
- 2002-2003 Ford Thunderbird
- 1997 Ford F-250 HD
- 1997-1999 Ford F-250 LD
- 1997-2003 Ford E Series
- 1997-2003 Ford Expedition
- 1997-2003 Ford Explorer
- 1997-2003 Ford F-150
- 1997-2003 Ford Ranger
- 1997-2003 Ford Windstar
- 1999-2003 Ford F Super Duty
- 2000-2003 Ford Excursion
- 2001-2003 Ford Escape
- 2001-2003 Ford Explorer Sport Trac
- 2001-2003 Ford Explorer Sport
- Ford Factory Service Bulletin OBDII Code P0442
Cost of diagnosing the P0442 FORD code
The cost of diagnosing the P0442 FORD code is 1.0 hour of labor. The auto repair labor rates vary by location, your vehicle’s make and model, and even your engine type. Most auto repairs shops charge between $75 and $150 per hour.
Possible Symptoms
- Engine Light ON (or Service Engine Soon Warning Light)
- Possible a noticeable fuel odor caused by the release of fuel vapors
P0442 FORD Description
The Engine Control Module (ECM) tests the Evaporative Emission (EVAP) system for the following conditions:
– Large and small leaks
– Excess vacuum
– Purge flow during non-commanded conditions
– Fuel Level and Fuel Pressure sensor faults
– EVAP Purge and Vent Valve faults
The ECM monitors the Fuel Tank Pressure sensor in order to determine the level of vacuum/pressure in the EVAP system. The ECM commands both the EVAP Purge Solenoid and the EVAP Vent Valve ON when the conditions are met in order to apply an engine vacuum to the EVAP system. The ECM commands the EVAP Purge Solenoid OFF once the system has reached a predetermined level of vacuum. This test verifies if a vacuum can be achieved in the EVAP system. Failure to develop a vacuum may be caused by a large leak or a restriction.
The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will set when a malfunction is detected when the EVAP control system has a leak, the EVAP control system does not operate properly.