OBD Guide

P04AB

EVAP System Purge Control Valve B Circuit/Open

Severity
Low
Can you drive?
Do not drive — repair immediately
Approx. repair cost
$17–78 (est.)

Symptoms

  • Check Engine Light Is On
  • The smell of gasoline from the engine compartment or in the cabin
  • Deteriorating fuel economy
  • Increased fuel evaporation (environmental disturbances)
  • Unstable idle when warming up
  • Difficulty starting after a long stay in the heat

Causes

  • Purge Valve B Control Circuit Wire Open
  • Poor contact in valve connector
  • Blown EVAP circuit fuse
  • Faulty purge valve solenoid (winding break)
  • Damage to wiring from environmental influences (corrosion, chafing)
  • ECU malfunction (rare)

How to Fix

  1. Check the EVAP circuit fuse according to the car diagram
  2. Measure the resistance of the purge valve solenoid B (standard: 20-50 ohms depending on the brand)
  3. Check the supply voltage at the valve connector when the ECU commands to open
  4. Inspect the connector and wiring for damage and oxidation.
  5. Check the circuit from the ECU to the valve for open circuit with a multimeter
  6. Perform valve activation test via scanner
  7. Replace the valve if the solenoid is internally broken
  8. Reset codes and perform EVAP system check

Related codes

Error P04AB by Vehicle Brand