AutoCodesLexus – P0442 Lexus

P0442 Lexus Code - EVAP System 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 Lexus indicates EVAP System 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.
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Code Popularity 75,272
How popular is this code, among other codes? Medium
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 29, 2020
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Code P0442 Lexus 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.
OBDII Code P0442 Lexus - EVAP System Small Leak Detected - AutoCodes.com
P0442 Lexus Code - EVAP System Small Leak Detected

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0442 Lexus?

  • 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 Lexus?

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

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0442 Lexus 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 Lexus code?

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0442 Lexus Code

No Frequently Asked Questions about P0442 Lexus Code found.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0442 Lexus OBDII Code

  • I went to 2 different places and the same code came up. P0442 on my 2006 Lexus RX330. I bought a new fuel cap. How long does it take for the system to reset itself and the lights go off? Check engine lite is on, along with PSV Trac off lite is on.

  • You have to have the codes erased, then drive for a while and see if they come back.

  • A couple days ago, I had O' Reilly's Auto Parts do a free diagnostic to determine why my Lexus GX470 "Check Engine" light was on. The technician quickly concluded it was because I needed a new gas cap. He sold me a new gas cap & informed me that my "Check Engine" light would automatically turn off by itself after I drove about 40 miles with my new gas cap in place of my old gas cap. Although I was slightly skeptical, it turns out that the technician was right. T
    he warning light just turned off by itself this morning. Problem solved.

  • Great!!! Thanks for sharing!!!

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