Chevy Silverado P0449 Code Diagnosis: EVAP System

The most common issue is the Chevy Silverado The Code P0449. This is your trouble code. It is the reference number given when you connect your Silverado to an a OBDII scanner. It deals with the evaporative emissions management system. The code often appears alongside, or is closely related to, other codes such as P0420 and P0446.

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

The P0449 problem is not usually a threat to your Silverado's driveability. Certainly anytime the service engine soon light is on, it’s good to deal with it as soon as possible though. You can also use a scanner to check if your valve is working correctly. These scanners are available in most shops. There’s a link towards the bottom the page on exactly how to perform that procedure. Otherwise, the article will demonstrate how you can solve your problem.

Chevy Silverado P0449 Definition

P0449 stands for a universal OBDII Trouble Code. It means that no matter what make or model vehicle it is, P0449 will be the same code (Silverado, or not) as long as the vehicle was made after 1996.

If P0449 is displayed, it means that either the solenoid circuit or the valve controlling the evaporation system are not working correctly. Depending on which vehicle model you have, the EVAP system converts fuel vapor from your gas tank to the intake manifold or charcoal canister. If the system fails to function properly, fuel vapor will not be removed.

ECM (Engine Control module) has identified a problem in the circuit that controls the vent which releases fuel vapor. Soon, the service engine will follow this up.

Chevy Silverado P0449 OBDII Code Symptoms

A P0449 Code will not usually be associated with other noticeable symptoms. Smells like gas And the service engine soon light. It is possible to notice a slight dip in fuel economy.

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

Fuel vapors are dealt with directly by the EVAP system. If these vapors are leaking from the system, you’ll often smell them faintly while operating the vehicle.

Silverado P0449 Trouble Code Causes

P0449 Trouble code can occur for many reasons in Chevy Silverado. These are some of the more common issues that can trigger the P0449 code. Here's a video explaining the process.

• 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 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 leading cause of 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. There are some clips you will need to look for and then remove. Here’s How to test a purge valle (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. This could cause a drop in tank pressure which can throw off 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 for Chevy Silverado

The mechanic can use a range of instruments to determine the cause of your Chevy Silverado P0449. These are some of the common diagnostics that can be done for the code

• 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 check to make sure there are no other 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. It includes the purge valve and line as well as the canister.
• Monitor and check the pressure in your fuel tank.
• 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 This is a great article on how to diagnose P0449.

Most common P0449 fixes

Below are the most commonly used Silverado P0449 solutions:

• Replacement of gas cap
• Replacement for EVAP Line
• Vent valve replacement
• Wiring repair

You should start with the gas caps and move on to the fuel tanks. This is because the gas caps are the easiest to replace and the least costly.

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

We wish you all the best in finding out why your Chevy Silverado is throwing the P0449 code. We trust this helped. You can add any additional information by leaving a comment.

Are P0449 Serious Concerns?

While P0449 is not going to cause the Silverado’s engine to stop running, it should not be treated lightly. Fuel leaks could be a problem. Check your tank regularly to make sure there is no fuel leaking. You should immediately take it in for repair or replacement.