P0496 — EVAP System High Purge Flow

SAFEIs it safe to drive? Generally OK to keep driving — sort it out at your convenience.

What P0496 means

The EVAP purge valve is flowing too much (often stuck open), pulling fuel vapor into the intake at the wrong time. Emissions code; can cause minor stalling/hard hot-start.

Most likely causes (in order)

  1. Purge valve/solenoid stuck open ($30-120)
  2. Faulty purge valve wiring
  3. Canister vent fault
  4. Cracked EVAP line

Symptoms you might notice

What to check first

Test the purge valve holds vacuum/seals when commanded closed; replace if stuck open. Very common on GM.

Repair cost & difficulty

Parts
$30-150
Labor
0.5-1 hr
Difficulty
Advanced

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