Chevy Trailblazer P0496 OBDII Code Diagnosis

This is one of the most commonly encountered trouble codes for the Chevy Trailblazer The Code P0496. This is the code number for the number given to Trailblazer when it's plugged in to an OBDII scanner.

Similar: P0420 Chevy Trailblazer

Chevy Trailblazer P0496 Symptoms

A P0496 code on the Chevy Trailblazer can often cause an unusual idle. In order to determine the right idle speed, the engine may rev up or down. This can often occur right after buying gas. Sometimes it might not even start at all when you go to 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 Trailblazer P0496 Meaning

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. Technically, the code stands for:

High Purge Evaporative Emission System

The EVAP system collects fuel vapor from your fuel tank, and then sends it to your engines intake to ignite the combustion process.

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

Chevy Trailblazer P0496 Causes

Many things can lead to the Chevrolet Trailblazer P0496 Trouble Code. 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 Trailblazer 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 need to identify and take out 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. It may be worth it to get that message and a P0496 for your Chevy Trailblazer.

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:

We wish you all the best in finding out what's wrong with Trailblazer. We trust this has helped. Please feel free to add anything below.