Chevy S10 P0449 Code Diagnosis: EVAP System

The most common issue is the Chevy S10 Is the Use code P0449. This is your trouble code. It is the reference number given when you connect your S10 to an a OBDII scanner. The evaporative emission control system is P0449. This code is often found with or related to P0446 and P0420.

P0449: Evaporative Emission Control System Vent Valve/Solenoid Circuit Malfunction

The P0449 problem is not usually a threat to your S10's driveability. Certainly anytime the service engine soon light is on, it’s good to deal with it as soon as possible though. A scanner that is very accurate will allow you to identify if the valve works correctly. Most shops carry them. There’s a link towards the bottom the page on exactly how to perform that procedure. This article is not intended to be a diagnosis.

Chevy S10 P0449 Definition

P0449 stands for a universal OBDII Trouble Code. The code can be used regardless of the make and model of the vehicle.

If P0449 is displayed, it means that either the solenoid circuit or the valve controlling the evaporation system are not working correctly. Depending on your vehicle's model, the EVAP cycle fuel vapor out of the tank into an intake manifold. This system can fail to properly deal with fuel vapor if it malfunctions.

ECM (Engine Control Modul) detected a fault within the circuit controlling the vent to release fuel vapor. Soon, the service engine will follow this up.

Chevy S10 P0449 OBDII Code Symptoms

The P0449 code is usually not accompanied with any other symptoms than those listed. The smell of gas The service engine soon light. The slightest drop in fuel economy may also be noticeable.

The fuel tank and fuel filler tubes should smell particularly strong.

The EVAP system is responsible for fuel vapors. If these vapors are leaking from the system, you’ll often smell them faintly while operating the vehicle.

Trouble codes for S10 P0449

P0449 can be triggered by many factors in Chevy S10. Below are the top causes of this code, along with an excellent video.

• Fuel Cap– A bad fuel cap can cause the 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 the message but a P0449. This will save you time and money.
• EVAP System Hose– The hose that carries the fuel vapor from the fuel tank to the intake manifold can begin to leak. This can lead to the P0449 error code. You should look for a hole or a tear in the code. This is the main problem that can cause the code.
• Vapor Canister Purge Valve– One of the most common causes of the P0449 code is the vapor canister purge valve. It’s really easy to replace. You'll need to identify and remove a few clips. Here’s How to check a purge device (YouTube).
• Trouble with Fuse/Wiring– If the wiring going to the valve has been compromise, it’ll lead to the P0449.
• Fuel Tank Sending Unit– It is possible for the gasket that attaches the fuel sending unit to the gas tank to go bad. It can lower the tank pressure, which could throw out the code.
• Fuel Filler Neck– There is often a gasket where the fuel filler neck connects with the gas tank. The gasket may dry out especially if the vehicle is in dry conditions. When it dries out, the fuel tank can’t hold pressure anymore, it may erroneously throw P0449.

P0449 Diagnostics- Chevy S10

To diagnose the problem with your Chevy S10, a mechanic will have a variety of tools at his/her disposal. The most commonly used methods to diagnose this code are:

• A mechanic will examine the gas cap and verify that it is able to withstand high pressure. If you are getting a warning that your gas cap is off, even when it’s on, replacing it will more than likely clear this code.
• The mechanic will usually check for any additional trouble codes. A mechanic will usually check for additional trouble codes to help diagnose the problem. That’s because when they appear together in certain combinations, there will often only be only a few conditions that will throw any combination of codes at one time.
• Once the mechanic has determined the trouble codes associated with P0449, he or she will usually Take a look at the EVAP system. These include the line and purge valve.
• Monitoring and checking the fuel tank pressure is a must.
• After for the checks and fixes listed above, the mechanic will perform two tests: A smoke test, and they’ll use a scan tool to confirm that the EVAP solenoids and valves are operating properly.

Are you still having problems? Here’s a Video with super technical content It is very detailed in diagnosing P0449.

Most common P0449 fixes

These are some of the most popular S10 P0449 fix:

• Replacement of gas cap
• Replacing EVAP lines
• Vent valve replacement
• Wiring repair

It is best to begin with the gas cap, and then work your way up to the fuel tanks. The gas cap is the most difficult and cost-effective item to replace.

Here’s a great video on How to check your gas cap.

You will need to solve the problem. This should help. Please feel free to add anything below.

Are P0449 Serious Concerns?

While P0449 is not going to cause the S10’s engine to stop running, it should not be treated lightly. Fuel leaks could be a problem. You should pay extra attention to the level of your fuel tank and ensure that you're not leaking fuel. It is best to have it checked and/or dealt with immediately.