Technical Description of OBD-II Trouble Code
Detected Leak in Evaporative Emission Control System (EVAP)
What does that signify?
This is a generic powertrain code that applies to all makes and models from 1996 onwards. However, the specific troubleshooting steps will vary depending on the vehicle.
DTC P0457 is a diagnostic trouble code that indicates a vacuum leak in the evaporative emission system, which is designed to prevent fuel vapor leaks into the atmosphere. Codes P0456 and P0455 are similar codes that indicate the size of the vacuum leaks, ranging from smallest to largest. The corrective measures are similar in all cases.
This code does not cause any driveability issues, but it should be addressed as soon as possible. It indicates the presence of a vacuum leak that compromises the operation of the evaporative emission system.
Automobiles require two types of emissions controls – passive and active. The active control relates to fuel ratio control and the catalytic converter’s ability to convert harmful emissions into harmless water and carbon dioxide, including carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and hydrocarbons.
The passive control relates to the P0457 code. Fuel vapor accounts for 20 percent of the harmful emissions through evaporation. To prevent these vapors from entering the atmosphere, they are contained within the fuel system and reintroduced into the engine through the intake manifold.
The evaporative emission system consists of the fuel tank, a vacuum hose connected to the charcoal canister for containing fuel vapors, a pressure sensor on the fuel tank, a purge valve on the charcoal canister, a vacuum hose connected to the filler neck shut off valve, and a vacuum hose from the charcoal canister purge valve to the intake manifold.
When the engine is off, the vent shutoff valve and canister purge valve are closed, preventing fuel from escaping into the atmosphere. When the engine starts, the purge valve on the canister opens, allowing the trapped fuel vapor to be drawn into the intake manifold by engine vacuum. At the same time, the vent shutoff valve also opens, allowing a small amount of air to enter the canister and mix with the fuel vapor for a better mixture. Once vented and the pressure sensor in the tank shows a significant drop, both valves close, sealing the system once again.
A major leak exists that prevents the system from creating the necessary vacuum to draw the fuel vapors into the engine for combustion.
Other related evaporative emission trouble codes include P0450, P0451, P0452, P0453, P0454, P0455, P0456, P0458, and P0459.
Symptoms
The symptoms of a P0457 code will vary depending on the component or system causing the disruption in the fuel trim. Not all symptoms will be present simultaneously.
Potential Causes
The potential causes for this DTC may include:
Diagnostic and Repair Procedures
Always check online for any TSBs (technical service bulletins) associated with your vehicle and this code.
The emission system on most vehicles is covered under warranty for an extended period, typically from 80 to 100,000 miles. This is because, without causing driveability problems, many owners may neglect to repair such an issue.
Professional Service
Of course, we always recommend seeking professional mechanical assistance to resolve this issue. However, if for some reason that is not possible, we offer the option to permanently delete this specific DTC. All other codes will continue to function. If you are interested in this option, please upload your ECU file to our portal.