What is the EVAP system and why does it trigger the check engine light?

The EVAP system, short for evaporative emission control system, captures fuel vapors from the gas tank and routes them back to the engine to be burned instead of releasing them into the air. It includes the gas cap, fuel tank, charcoal canister, purge valve, vent valve, and connecting hoses. When any part of this sealed system develops a leak, the car's computer detects the pressure change and triggers the check engine light with an EVAP-related code like P0440 or P0455. The most frequent culprit is a loose or worn gas cap, but cracked hoses and faulty valves are also common. At Motoro Cars in Miami, our ASE-certified, AAA-approved technicians use computerized diagnostics and smoke testing to find EVAP leaks accurately. Call Wynwood at (786) 634-2002 or Doral at (786) 633-3220 to seal up your EVAP system and clear that light for good.