What does a charcoal EVAP canister do?
The charcoal canister is the centerpiece of the evaporative emission control (EVAP) system, a technology designed to prevent vapors from your fuel tank from escaping into the atmosphere. The charcoal canister seldom fails and should last the life of the car.
How does activated charcoal work in an EVAP system?
The canister contains activated charcoal, which traps the vapors until the engine is running, and conditions are correct for a vapor purge. Normally, the vapor canister is open to the atmosphere to allow fresh air to enter. The canister is only closed when the EVAP monitor is run (more on that later).
When do I need to replace my EVAP canister?
SERVICE INFORMATION If the EVAP canister leaks (or has leaked) charcoal, it must be replaced. In addition to replacing the canister, the entire EVAP emission control system must be cleaned to remove charcoal particles released by the leaking canister.
What do you need to know about the EVAP system?
A series of valves regulates the flow of air and vapors into the system, the general idea being to route them to the engine to be burned. The EVAP system, to work most effectively, should be completely sealed, including the fuel cap, tubes, valves, canister, and fuel tank.
How does a charcoal canister help with evaporative emissions?
The charcoal canister is filled with activated charcoal, whose huge surface area readily absorbs fuel vapors. A series of valves regulates the flow of air and vapors into the system, the general idea being to route them to the engine to be burned.
Why do you need a charcoal canister for EVAP?
The charcoal canister is the centerpiece of the evaporative emission control (EVAP) system, a technology designed to prevent vapors from your fuel tank from escaping into the atmosphere.
How do you remove an EVAP emissions canister?
Step 8: Remove EVAP canister from the clips (if applicable). In many cases this part is attached to a series of clips on the backside. You can gain access to these clips after you remove the bolts. Using a flat blade screwdriver, carefully depress on the clip and slide the EVAP emissions canister off the bracket.
When do you need to replace a charcoal canister?
A failed charcoal canister must be replaced to keep the check engine light off and limit pollution. But first, a thorough diagnosis of the EVAP system should be performed to ensure the canister is actually the problem.
How can I tell if my EVAP canister is bad?
There are a few warning signs that might also indicate that a problem with the EVAP emissions control canister exists including the following: Check Engine Light displays on dash: When there is a problem with the EVAP emissions control canister, the Check Engine Light will display on the dash.