Chevy Impala P0496 OBDII Code Diagnosis

The most frequent trouble code with the Chevy Impala The P0496 Code. This is the code that you will receive when your Impala goes into an OBDII scanner.

Related: P0420 Chevy Ipala

Chevy Impala P0496 Symptoms

The Chevy Impala's P0496 code will frequently be associated with an irregular idle. In order to determine the right idle speed, your engine may rev up or 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.

Chevy Impala P0496 Meaning

The universal OBDII code P0496 can be used to diagnose trouble codes. It means that the code is universal and will be the same regardless of make or model. Technically the code is:

Evaporative Emissions System, High Purge Flow

The EVAP captures any fuel vapor in the fuel tank. They are then sent to the intake to incite the regular combustion process.

The Chevy Impala's computer will emit the OBDII P0496 code if it detects the EVAP system purging in an unintentional manner.

Chevy Impala P0496 Troubleshooting

The Chevrolet Impala's P0496 code can be caused by many factors. The most frequent problems that cause this code are listed below.

Vapor Canister Purge Valve– The most common culprit with the P0496 trouble code and the Chevy Impala is going to be the vapor canister purge valve. When it goes bad, it typically causes issues with the vehicle’s idle speed. It is particularly true after filling up your vehicle.

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. You can check it.

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. You may not get that message unless you have a P0496 installed on your Chevy Impala. This will save you time and money by having the fuel cap replaced and then waiting to see if it changes.

Oil 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:

We wish you all the best in diagnosing what's wrong with your Impala. We trust this helped. Please feel free to add anything below.