Engine-Codes - Ford - P0442 Ford

P0442 Ford Code - Evaporative Emission System Leak Detected Small Leak

- Code Popularity: 138,280 Views
- Repair Importance Level: 1/3
- Repair Difficulty Level: 3/3
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What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0442 Ford?

NOTE: The causes shown may not be a complete list of all potential problems, and it is possible that there may be other 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

Code 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

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How to Fix the DTC 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 pins.

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What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

The cost to diagnose the P0442 Ford code is 1.0 hour of labor. The diagnosis time and labor rates at auto repair shops vary depending on the location, make and model of the vehicle, and even the engine type. Most auto repair shops charge between $75 and $150 per hour.

What are Code Possible Symptoms?

  • Engine Light ON (or Service Engine Soon Warning Light)
  • A noticeable fuel odor may result from fuel vapor release

What Does the P0442 Ford Code Mean?

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.
P0442 Ford Code - Evaporative Emission System Leak Detected Small Leak

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