P0456 on 2009-2016 Nissan Murano: EVAP Small Leak Causes and Fixes

What's Unique About the 2009-2016 Nissan MURANO

On this generation of Nissan Murano, the P0456 code is very frequently linked to a specific component failure. Nissan has issued multiple Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) pointing directly to the EVAP canister's vent control valve as the source of the leak. Initially, bulletins like NTB17-082b advised replacing just a degraded O-ring. However, later revisions like NTB17-082E state that the O-ring is no longer sold separately and instruct technicians to replace the entire vent control valve assembly. This makes diagnosis more straightforward than on many other vehicles where a small leak can be much harder to pinpoint.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Tap your situation to follow the diagnostic path that matches what you're seeing on this vehicle.

Generation note: This range covers the end of the second generation (Z51, 2009-2014) and the start of the third generation (Z52, 2015-2016) Murano. The primary cause, a faulty EVAP vent control valve, is a known issue across both generations. TSB NTB17-082b explicitly lists both Murano Z51 and Z52 in its claims information, confirming the problem spans these models.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Check Engine Light is on
• A faint smell of gasoline, particularly after refueling or when parked in an enclosed space like a garage.
• Slight decrease in fuel economy over time
• Difficulty refueling (gas pump nozzle clicks off repeatedly before the tank is full), which can indicate the vent valve is stuck closed.

Most Likely Causes

1. Failing EVAP Vent Control Valve or its O-Ring 🔴 High Probability → Shop Vapor Canister Vent Valve Nissan has issued multiple TSBs (e.g., NTB17-082b, NTB17-082E) specifically for this failure. The rubber O-ring that seals the valve to the charcoal canister dries out and cracks, creating a small leak. Alternatively, the valve itself can fail internally and no longer hold a seal when commanded closed during the EVAP system test.
   How to confirm: A smoke test is the most effective method. A technician introduces smoke into the EVAP system and looks for it escaping from the vent control valve area. The valve is normally open, so it must be commanded closed with a capable scan tool (or by applying direct power) to see if it leaks. A technician in one video confirmed the leak by energizing the valve and seeing that smoke still passed through it. 🎬 Watch: A technician performs a smoke test on a 2015 Murano. The valve is located on the charcoal canister, near the rear subframe.
   Typical fix: Early Nissan TSBs recommended replacing only the O-ring (P/N 16618-JF00A). However, later bulletins (NTB17-082E) state the O-ring is no longer available as a separate service part and the entire vent control valve assembly must be replaced. This is now the standard, more robust repair. The valve typically removes with a quarter-turn after releasing a tab.
   Est. part cost: $5 - $15 for O-ring (if available), $40 - $90 for aftermarket valve, $60 - $120 for OEM valve.
2. Loose, Worn, or Incorrect Gas Cap 🟡 Medium Probability → Shop Fuel Tank Cap This is a common cause on all vehicles and is the first thing to check. The gas cap is a critical sealing point for the EVAP system. If the seal is old and cracked, or if the cap isn't tightened until it clicks, it will cause a P0456 code. Using a non-OEM gas cap can also lead to sealing issues, as aftermarket caps may not meet the precise pressure-sealing specifications.
   How to confirm: First, ensure the gas cap is tightened properly (at least one click). Inspect the rubber gasket on the cap for cracks, stiffness, or debris. If it looks worn, it's a likely suspect. Many 2012+ Nissans have a "Loose Fuel Cap" warning on the dash, which may appear before the Check Engine Light.
   Typical fix: Tighten the existing cap, clear the codes, and drive for a few days. If the code returns, replace the gas cap with a new OEM part for best results.
   Est. part cost: $20 - $45
3. Cracked or Disconnected EVAP Hoses ⚪ Low Probability Over time, rubber hoses can become brittle and crack, especially those exposed to engine heat or underbody elements. Small, hard-to-see cracks in the vacuum lines near the purge valve in the engine bay can be a cause.
   How to confirm: Visually inspect all accessible EVAP lines, from the engine bay (near the purge valve) to the charcoal canister and fuel tank. A smoke test will quickly reveal leaks from any cracked hoses.
   Typical fix: Replace the damaged section of hose. In some cases, you may need to replace a pre-formed hose assembly.
   Est. part cost: $10 - $50
4. Failing EVAP Canister Purge Valve ⚪ Low Probability → Shop Vapor Canister While less common for a P0456 on this vehicle, the purge valve can get stuck open or closed. This valve is located in the engine bay, not to be confused with the more problematic vent valve 🎬 See this video to locate the purge valve on your Murano. at the rear.
   How to confirm: The purge valve is normally closed. Remove the valve (usually located on or near the intake manifold in the engine bay) and try to blow through it. If air passes through, it's stuck open and needs to be replaced.
   Typical fix: Replace the purge valve solenoid.
   Est. part cost: $25 - $75

Rare But Worth Checking

• Cracked EVAP Charcoal Canister: → Shop Vapor Canister While the canister itself is durable, road debris or impact can cause a crack in the plastic housing. This is more likely to cause a large leak code (P0455) but can sometimes manifest as a small leak.
• Leaking Fuel Tank Pressure Sensor: → Shop Fuel Tank The sensor that monitors system pressure can develop a leak in its own seal, though this is uncommon.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Check the gas cap. Ensure it is tight and the seal is in good condition. If in doubt, replace it with an OEM cap, clear the code, and see if it returns after a few drive cycles.
2. Visually inspect all accessible EVAP hoses in the engine bay and under the vehicle near the charcoal canister for obvious cracks or disconnections.
3. Locate the EVAP vent control valve on the charcoal canister (at the rear of the vehicle, often behind the driver's side rear wheel or near the subframe). Inspect the area where it mounts to the canister.
4. Perform a smoke test. This is the most definitive way to find the leak. Introduce smoke into the EVAP service port (often a green-capped valve in the engine bay). Watch for where smoke escapes. Pay close attention to the vent valve, purge valve, and all hose connections.
5. If smoke exits from the vent valve (while it is commanded shut by a scan tool), the valve assembly is faulty and must be replaced. If smoke exits where the valve mounts to the canister, the O-ring has failed.
6. If smoke exits from a hose, replace the damaged hose.
7. If no leaks are found externally, test the purge and vent valve solenoids for proper electrical function and sealing. The vent valve should be normally open and seal completely when 12V is applied.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• EVAP Vapor Canister Vent Valve / Solenoid (OEM #14935-JF00E (or superseding part 14935-JF02C)) — This is the most common failure point for P0456 on this vehicle, as documented by multiple Nissan TSBs. The internal valve fails to seal or the mounting O-ring degrades. Nissan's latest guidance is to replace the entire assembly.
  Trusted brands: Nissan (OEM), Dorman, Hitachi, Bosch
  OEM price range: $60-$120
  Aftermarket price range: $40-$90
• Fuel Cap (OEM #17251-1AA0A (verify with VIN)) — A worn or loose gas cap is a frequent and simple cause for a small EVAP leak code on any vehicle. An OEM cap is strongly recommended for a guaranteed seal.
  Trusted brands: Nissan (OEM), Stant
  OEM price range: $25-$40
  Aftermarket price range: $15-$25
• EVAP Vent Control Valve O-Ring (OEM #16618-JF00A) — Nissan TSB NTB17-082b specifically identifies this O-ring as the cause of the leak. However, later TSBs note it is no longer serviced separately, making valve assembly replacement the standard procedure. If you can source the O-ring, it's the cheapest potential fix.
  Trusted brands: Nissan (OEM)
  OEM price range: $5-$15

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• P0442 — This code indicates a medium-sized EVAP leak. A failing component can sometimes trigger P0456 initially and then worsen, leading to a P0442 code.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• NTB17-082E: DTC P0456 CAUSED BY EVAP LEAK AT VENT CONTROL VALVE O-RING
• NTB17-082b: NISSAN; DTC P0456 CAUSED BY EVAP LEAK AT VENT CONTROL VALVE O-RING
• NTB13-097J: EVAP LEAK DTC P0442, P0455, P0456 INFORMATION
• ITB17-042D: Infiniti TSB mirroring the Nissan guidance to replace the vent valve assembly for P0456.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• Nissan TSB NTB17-082E: The Definitive Guide: This bulletin, updated as recently as February 2022, applies to all 2008 and newer Nissan vehicles. It confirms that if P0456 is present and not caused by a loose gas cap, the likely cause is a leak at the vent control valve O-ring. The bulletin's action is to "Replace the vent control valve as an assembly," noting that the O-ring is no longer available as a separate service part.
• Evolution of the TSB Fix: Early versions of the TSB, like NTB17-082b, instructed technicians to replace only the O-ring (P/N 16618-JF00A). However, this part was later discontinued for separate sale. The current TSB, NTB17-082E, mandates replacing the entire vent control valve assembly, which provides a more reliable and permanent repair.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• EVAP Vent Control Valve Solenoid Resistance — expected: Typically between 20 and 50 Ohms.. Failure: A reading of 0 Ohms (short circuit) or infinite/OL (open circuit) indicates a failed solenoid coil.
• EVAP Purge Valve Solenoid Resistance — expected: Typically between 12 and 40 Ohms. One test on a similar Nissan valve showed 36 Ohms.. Failure: A reading significantly outside the expected range, or showing open/shorted, indicates a failure.
• EVAP Vent Control Valve Connector Voltage — expected: With the ignition key in the ON position, one of the two wires at the connector should have battery voltage (approx. 12V).. Failure: Absence of 12V power points to a wiring or fuse issue upstream of the valve.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• Nissan CONSULT or equivalent professional scan tool: EVAP System Active Test: Vent Control Valve CLOSE — This command is essential before performing a smoke test. The vent valve is normally open, so it must be commanded closed to seal the system and allow it to be pressurized with smoke to find leaks.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• EVAP Canister Vent Control Valve — Below the rear of the vehicle, mounted on or near the EVAP charcoal canister.. This is the physical location of the most common part to fail and cause P0456. Visual inspection and testing must be performed here.
• ECM (Engine Control Module) — On a 2013 Murano, it is located in the left front of the engine compartment.. The ECM controls the EVAP solenoids. A wiring issue between the ECM and a valve could cause this code, though it is much less common than the valve itself failing.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• YouTube channel WHITEHOUSE FARM (Nissan vehicle (model appears to be a Sentra, but the P0456 cause and fix are identical for the Murano)) — Intermittent Check Engine Light for code P0456.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Replacing the gas cap with a new OEM part from the dealership did not resolve the issue.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The problem was resolved by replacing the EVAP canister vent valve solenoid at the rear of the vehicle. The owner notes the new part looked slightly different but functioned correctly.

"I Checked Everything" — The Actual Cause

• In some cases, a standard smoke test may not reveal a leak even if one exists. A technician on YouTube demonstrated a P0456 on a Nissan where the leak was not from a hose or seal, but from a hairline crack in the plastic body of the vent valve assembly itself. This can be missed if the technician only looks for smoke from connection points and hoses. The fix was to replace the entire vent valve assembly.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 14935-JF00A / B / C / D / E → 14935-JF02C — Standard design updates and revisions by the manufacturer to improve reliability or consolidate parts.
  Heads up: The latest part, 14935-JF02C, is the correct replacement for all previous versions and fits the entire 2009-2016 Murano range. Using an older stock number is not recommended.
• 16618-JF00A (O-ring only) → N/A - Discontinued for service — Nissan determined that replacing the entire valve assembly was a more effective and reliable repair.
  Heads up: This O-ring is no longer sold as a separate service part. The official repair procedure requires replacing the entire vent valve assembly.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• 2009-2016: While this range crosses two Murano generations (Z51 and Z52), the primary component responsible for P0456, the EVAP vent control valve, is shared. The same OEM part number (and its supersessions) is specified for the entire model year range, indicating the design of this specific part and its failure mode are consistent across both generations.