Buick Encore P0496 OBDII Code Diagnosis

The most frequent trouble code with the Buick Encore The Code P0496. Refers to a code that you receive when your Encore is plugged into an OBDII scanner.

Buick Encore P0496 symptoms

The P0496 code for the Buick Encore is often accompanied with an irregular idle. To find the correct idle speed, your engine will start revving up and down. This is often what happens right after you purchase gas. Sometimes it might not even start at the station.

If you’re old enough to have driven a carbureted vehicle the old stomp the gas and crank the engine method does actually help start the car. The air fuel mixture is off.
Similar: P0420 Buick Encore

Buick Encore P0496 Significance

The universal OBDII code P0496 can be used to diagnose trouble codes. The code can be used regardless of the make and model of your vehicle. The code is technically:

Evaporative emission system High Purge Flow

The EVAP captures any fuel vapor in the fuel tank. They are then sent to the intake of the engine to start the normal combustion process.

The Buick Encore computer will emit the OBDII P0496 code if it detects the EVAP system purging in an unintentional manner.

Buick Encore P0496 Causes

The P0496 Trouble Code on Buick Encore can be caused by many factors. These are some of the more common issues that can cause the code to appear.

Vapor Canister Purge Valve– The most common culprit with the P0496 trouble code and the Buick Encore is going to be the vapor canister purge valve. When it goes bad, it typically causes issues with the vehicle’s idle speed. This happens especially after the vehicle has been fueled up.

It’s really easy to replace. You will need to locate and delete a few clips. Below is an excellent YouTube video that explains how to diagnose the problem.

PCM– It is possible that the engines computer system itself has gone bad and is registering a P0496 when it shouldn’t be. However, you shouldn't start there.

Connectivity– It is possible for shorts in the wiring harness leading to the Vapor Canister Purge Valve has gone bad. It is worth checking.

Fuel Cap– A bad fuel cap can cause the P0496 code to be thrown for sure. Often, you’ll get a message informing you that the fuel cap is off even when it is on. It may be worth it to get the message plus a P0496 for your Buick Encore to have it replaced and to see if it disappears.

Check the Fuel Tank Pressure Sensor– If the fuel tank pressure sensor has gone bad, it can cause all sorts of problems, including the P0496 code.

Here’s a good video on it:

You will be able to identify the problem with Encore. This should help. You can add any additional information by leaving a comment.