EVAP system: can one go beyond just reading the code P0441 without taking off the gas tank?

ontosha · #1 10-19-2007, 09:45 PM

Hi all,
I have 2004 Stratus SXT with 40k miles on it. Everything works fine, except two things:
1) "check engine" turned on, PCM gives code P0441 - "EVAP system: Incorrect vapor flow". Is it possible to look at this EVAP system (check for corrosion, hose leaks, etc.) without actually taking off the gas tank? As far as I understand, the whole thing sits on top of gas tank and Haynes manual says you have to remove it to get to EVAP system. Maybe someone knows a way around it? (through back seat or trunk?)
What's the most common problem with these parts? (well, besides loose filler cap

)

2) any suggestion why coolant may spill over the top of it's reservoir (through the closed cap)? I see some spills, and it's looks like if you cover the boiling pan with lid, and then forget it there. Engine doesn't overheat. I'm thinking about cracked cylinder head, but no oil drops seen in the reservoir.

Thank you all and have a great day!

-Anton

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ontosha · #2 10-20-2007, 09:08 PM

Hi all,
replying to my own question #1 - NO, it's not possible to get to those parts in 2004 Stratus SXT sedan. They sit on top of the gas tank, so you'll have to take it off. No access through back seat or trunk.

Zackman · #3 10-25-2007, 10:35 PM

1. P0441 usually deals with the EVAP Purge Solenoid. As the unit sits under the vehicle on top of the fuel tank, it may get corrosion as time passes on.

2. Unless you have too much coolant in the system to begin with, you are probably dealing with a cap that is not maintaining 16psi. And to check for cracked head (hopefully not at 40K miles), pull out your engine oil dipstick and see if any "milky" substance.

ontosha · #4 10-27-2007, 06:00 PM

Zackman,
thanks for reply!
As far as I figured it out, purge control solenoid sits right under brake fluid reservoir, next to cruise control actuator. So I can reach that easily. I'm replacing the fuel tank cap right now, clearing the code and I will watch if it comes up again. If it comes up again - I'll replace purge control solenoid.
Things that cannot be easily reached are: charcoal canister and leak detection pump (as well as hoses and electrical connections). If the problem is somewhere there - i'll have to go to shop, 'cause i don't have place/tools to remove the gas tank. (there's also a chance that it's all covered under California Emissions warranty, i'm checking this right now)

No "milky" substance in oil, so - yeah, it's probably the radiator cap.

cheers!