Warning signs your EVAP Charcoal Canister might be failing:
- Check Engine Light: This is the most common sign. The light might come on and stay on.
- Fuel Odor: You might smell gasoline, especially after filling up your gas tank.
- Poor Fuel Economy: Your car might not be getting as many miles per gallon as it used to.
- Difficulty Starting: The engine might take longer to start than normal.
- Rough Idling: The engine might shake or run unevenly when the car is stopped.
How to test if the EVAP Charcoal Canister is the problem:
- Visual Inspection: Check the canister and hoses for cracks, damage, or leaks.
- Smoke Test: A mechanic can use a smoke machine to find leaks in the EVAP system.
- Scan Tool: A scan tool can read the error codes from the car's computer to identify EVAP system problems.
- Pressure Test: A mechanic can use a pressure tester to check for leaks in the system.
Common causes of EVAP Charcoal Canister failure:
- Overfilling the Gas Tank: This can flood the canister with fuel, damaging it.
- Age and Wear: The canister can wear out over time due to exposure to the elements and normal use.
- Damaged Hoses: Cracked or broken hoses can cause leaks in the EVAP system.
- Impact Damage: Physical damage from road debris or accidents can damage the canister.
