I'm about to purchase a 2003 Neon SXT however, the owner called and said the
CHECK ENGINE light came on. He took it to the dealer, they diagnosed code P0441
as a faulty fuel cap & replaced it.

The car is in great shape (33,000 miles). Only other problem has been an O2 sensor
needing to be replaced. Dealer said that if code P0441 is ignored, this could cause
the O2 sensor to fault.

So, question is... Should I buy this car or hold off? I've seen a lot of messages about
this code. Most seem to be Fuel Cap however, some mention the Purge Solenoid
which could cost upwards of $300+.

Really appreciate your opinions.


Thanks!

 

i wouldn't buy it until it is fixed... its not that big of a problem, but its the point.

 

Thanks to all the helpful advice on this site, I've learned a great deal in a short amount of time regarding the problems with Neon Evap.System...

2003 Neon Check Engine Light [/b]Code: P0441
Evaporative emission control system incorrect purge flow.
Excessive vapor flow detected during evaporative emission system operation.

1) Gas Cap not tightened completely
2) Gas Cap faulty
3) System leak. Check all vacuum hoses
4) Vapor Canister Duty Cycle Purge Solenoid
((located in LH Frt Wheel Well- above steering rack
5) Natural Vacuum Leak Detector (NVLD) part #4891427AB
((located on RH side near gas tank))


Run NVLD Force Test
Use DRB3 and run Evap Test
Check all vacuum hoses for cracks/leaks

Questions:
How much for the Purge Solenoid and NVLD?
Is this a do-it-yourself project?

I may use these are price negotiating factors tomorrow.


Thanks again!