P0450 “Evaporative Emission Control System Pressure Sensor Malfunction”
What is code P0450?
Code P0450 stands for “Evaporative Emission Control System Pressure Sensor Malfunction”. This diagnostic trouble code can show up for a number of problems related to a leak in the evaporative emissions (EVAP) system. Therefore, it is important to have a qualified technician diagnose the specific problem that caused the code to be stored in your vehicle’s computer.
Get this checked out soon by a CarAdvise shop, where the work will be guaranteed, and one of our expert techs will review any repair orders.
What does code P0450 mean?
When code P0450 shows up on a diagnostic scan of your vehicle, a technician knows that there is something going wrong with your EVAP system.
Gasoline has a tendency to evaporate, especially when it is warm outside, or when you are filling the gas tank at the pump. This evaporation not only depletes your store of fuel, but also allows harmful pollutants to enter the atmosphere. For this reason, vehicles are fitted with an evaporative emissions control system, also known as the EVAP system. This collection of tubes, sensors, and valves connected to the fuel tank allow evaporating vapors to be collected in a special receptacle, the EVAP canister, where they can be reintroduced into the fuel system to be burned by the engine at a later time.
Every so often, the ECM (Engine Control Module) that oversees the function of your engine and other systems will run a pressure or vacuum test on the EVAP system to confirm its integrity. When running this test, the ECM uses data from the EVAP pressure sensor to monitor the system pressure and confirm whether or not there is a leak. If the ECM does not receive the proper return voltage from the sensor – or if sensor data is outside of set parameters – it will store code P0450 and turn on the check engine light.
What causes code P0450?
A number of causes can trigger a code P0450. That is why an accurate diagnosis is essential. Causes of this code relate to any component in the EVAP system that could facilitate a leak. For instance:
Most likely
- A bad EVAP pressure sensor (Avg. $300)
- Faulty wiring to the pressure sensor
Other possibilities
- Bad ECM
What symptoms are associated with this code?
Common signs associated with a code P0450 include the following:
- The check engine light is on
- Reduced fuel economy
- Failed emissions test
- Smell of fuel outside the vehicle
How does a technician diagnose code P0450?
If a diagnostic scan of your vehicle indicates a code P0450, a technician will perform tests to pinpoint the problem. These tests include checking for any related trouble codes. The technician will also use the scan tool to command EVAP components to function, such as opening and closing the vent valve and purge valve. This is done in order to observe certain characteristics that might indicate if the pressure sensor is working. The technician will perform a visual inspection of the sensor and related wiring and use a multimeter to test the sensor. If necessary, a “pinout test” of the valve’s wiring might be done to determine if an issue exists between the sensor and the ECM.
How serious is this code?
A code P0450 is not likely to cause any immediate drivability issues. It will, however, prevent your vehicle from passing an emissions test. An EVAP system leak can get worse with time and could lead to additional diagnostic trouble codes. In some cases, a fuel vapor leak could even cause engine misfires. Code P0450 is not cause for immediate concern, but it should not be ignored long-term. Look to have your vehicle inspected within a week or so.
Get this checked out soon by a CarAdvise shop, where the work will be guaranteed, and one of our expert techs will review any repair orders.
Related Diagnostic Trouble Codes
P0440 “EVAP System Malfunction”
P0442 “EVAP System Pressure Sensor/Switch A Circuit”
P0456 “EVAP System Leak Detected (large leak)
