P0442 Honda Code - EVAP System Very Small Leak Detected
Quick Answer
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. Common causes include Missing or loose fuel cap, Incorrect fuel filler cap used, Fuel filler cap remains open or fails to close. Severity is Low - monitor the vehicle and repair when practical. The vehicle can usually be driven if no severe symptoms are present, but symptoms should be checked before extended driving.
- What it means
- P0442 Honda indicates EVAP System Very Small Leak Detected.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Missing or loose fuel cap, Incorrect fuel filler cap used, Fuel filler cap remains open or fails to close.
- Severity
- Low - monitor the vehicle and repair when practical.
- Can I drive?
- The vehicle can usually be driven if no severe symptoms are present, but symptoms should be checked before extended driving.
Code P0442 Honda Description
- 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.
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0442 Honda?
- 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 to Fix the DTC P0442 Honda?
Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.
Code Tech Notes
User Submitted Video
What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?
Labor: 1.0
To diagnose the P0442 Honda code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.
Need more information about the P0442 Honda code?
Need more information on how to fix the P0442 Honda code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals
Need Help with the Code?
Get the P0442 Honda code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area
Frequently Asked Questions about P0442 Honda Code
1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code P0442 in a Honda vehicle?
- Common symptoms include the check engine light coming on, a noticeable fuel odor, and potential issues with fuel efficiency.
2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0442 in a Honda?
- The code P0442 typically indicates a very small leak in the evaporative emission control system, which could be caused by a loose or damaged gas cap, a leak in the EVAP system hoses, or a faulty EVAP canister purge valve.
3. How serious is OBDII code P0442 in a Honda vehicle?
- While this code is not an immediate cause for concern in terms of safety or drivability, it can lead to increased emissions and potential long-term issues if left unresolved.
4. How can I diagnose and repair OBDII code P0442 in my Honda?
- Diagnosis involves checking the gas cap for tightness, inspecting EVAP system hoses for leaks, and testing the EVAP canister purge valve. Repair may involve tightening or replacing the gas cap, repairing or replacing damaged hoses, or replacing a faulty purge valve.
5. Can I continue driving my Honda with OBDII code P0442 present?
- It is generally safe to continue driving the vehicle with this code, but it is recommended to address the issue promptly to prevent potential environmental impact and further damage to the emission control system.
6. Will resetting the check engine light resolve OBDII code P0442 in a Honda?
- Resetting the check engine light may temporarily clear the code, but if the underlying issue causing the P0442 code is not addressed, the code is likely to reappear.
7. How often does OBDII code P0442 occur in Honda vehicles?
- OBDII code P0442, indicating a very small EVAP system leak, is a relatively common code that can occur in Honda vehicles, especially as they age and components wear out.
8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0442 in a Honda at home?
- Depending on their skill level and access to tools, a DIY enthusiast may be able to diagnose and repair OBDII code P0442 at home by checking and tightening the gas cap, inspecting hoses, and replacing components as needed.
9. What is the typical cost to repair OBDII code P0442 in a Honda at a professional auto repair shop?
- The cost to repair OBDII code P0442 in a Honda at a professional auto repair shop can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but it may range from $100 to $300 or more, including parts and labor.
10. How can I prevent OBDII code P0442 from recurring in my Honda in the future?
- To prevent OBDII code P0442 from recurring, it is important to ensure the gas cap is tightened properly after refueling, regularly inspect and maintain the EVAP system components, and address any issues promptly to avoid small leaks developing into larger problems.
Discuss the causes and fixes for P0442 Honda OBDII Code
-
This code can also be triggered by a large change in air temperature. For example, fill the tank at 30 degrees F, drive 150 miles, then leave it parked in the sun on an 80 degree day. Welcome to Colorado.
-
Hello: I recently received this code on my 2003 Honda Element. I am not too sure what is causing it. There is no smell of gas nor is there a leak visible and gas cap is tighten correctly. I had p0420, p0172, and p0457 all of these codes were removed by changing both the oxygen sensors upstream and downstream. I am in the process of changing the cat soon since smog is coming for my car. I don't understand why p0442 came on. Any help will be appreciated.
-
Very small leaks are difficult to diagnose, you could have loose hose or damage EVAP component. You could start by checking the hoses to and from the EVAP canister, if all the hoses are OK, after the gas cap, then one of the most common problem is the EVAP Canister Purge Solenoid.
Fix Your Car Smarter
Try the New AutoCodes App!
Get complete OBDII diagnostics, repair solutions, and cost estimates, plus AI chat support on demand.
