P0440 — EVAP System Malfunction (general)

SAFEIs it safe to drive? An emissions/fuel-vapor fault. No drivability danger — fix it on your schedule (it will fail an emissions test).

What P0440 means

The evaporative emissions system — which traps fuel vapors and routes them back to be burned — has a general fault, often a leak or a valve.

Most likely causes (in order)

  1. Loose, cracked, or missing gas cap (check first, free)
  2. Cracked EVAP hose
  3. Faulty purge or vent valve
  4. Charcoal canister fault

Symptoms you might notice

What to check first

Tighten or replace the gas cap and clear it. If it returns, smoke-test the EVAP system to find the leak.

Repair cost & difficulty

Parts
$0–150
Labor
0.2–1.5 hr
Difficulty
Easy DIY

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