Chrysler PT Cruiser P0456: EVAP System – Small Leak

This is one of the most commonly encountered trouble codes for the Chrysler PT Cruiser The Code P0456. This is a trouble code that refers to a number given when you plug in your PT Cruiser. OBDII scanner. The code P0456 indicates that the evaporative emissions control system has a tiny leak. It is sometimes found along with other codes such as P0420 or P0441.

P0456 does not usually pose a threat to your PT Cruiser's driveability. Certainly anytime the service engine soon light is on, it’s good to deal with it as soon as possible.

While the trouble code may state that there is a “small leak” in the EVAP system of your Chrysler PT Cruiser, it is actually referring to the amount of pressure lost, and not the physical size of the leak. This can happen in very small amounts.

Chrysler PT Cruiser P0456 Definition

The universal OBDII code P0456 can be used to diagnose trouble codes. The code can be used regardless of the make and model of the vehicle. Technically, the code stands for:

Système Leakage in the Smallest Detail – Evaporative Emission System

The EVAP system collects fuel vapor from fuel tanks and then sends it to the intake to ignite the engine in normal combustion. When there is a small leak in the Chrysler PT Cruiser’s EVAP system, it will throw the P0456 OBDII Code. If there is a large leak, it’ll throw P0455.

Chrysler PT Cruiser P0456 OBDII Code Symptoms

A P0456 Code will not usually be associated with other noticeable symptoms. The smell of gas The service engine soon light.

Particular attention should be paid to the smell of fuel near the fuel tank or fuel filler tube.

The EVAP process deals with fuel vapors directly. If these vapors are leaking from the system, you’ll often smell them faintly while operating the vehicle. But, it won’t affect the way the engine itself runs. The EVAP system is for fuel vapor and does not affect the operation of your PT Cruiser's engine.

PT Cruiser P0456 Trouble Code Causes

P0456 Trouble code can occur for many reasons in your Chrysler PT Cruiser. If your PT Cruiser has warned you at all in the last few months that the fuel cap was off when it wasn’t, then replacing it would be a great first step.

Below are the top most probable problems that could throw the code. These were listed alphabetically, in some order.

• Hose for Evap System– The hose that carries the fuel vapor from the fuel tank to the intake manifold can begin to leak. This can lead to the code P0456. It should be checked for tears or holes. This is the main problem that can cause the code.
• Vapor Canister Purge Valve– One of the most common causes of the P0456 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.
• 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 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 P0456. This will save you time and money.
• 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.

P0456 Diagnosis- Chrysler PT Cruiser

The mechanic will have a lot of different tools at his disposal in order to determine the cause of your Chrysler PT Cruiser P0456. These are some of the common diagnostics that can be done for the code

• A mechanic will usually check for any additional trouble codes. It is easier to diagnose problems if there are more codes. 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 P0456, he or she will usually Take a look at the EVAP system. It includes the line, purge valve and canister.
• 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.
• Monitor and check the pressure in your fuel tank.
• Following the inspections and repairs, the mechanic will conduct two more tests.
• A smoke test, and they’ll use a scan tool to confirm that the EVAP solenoids and valves are operating properly.

Here’s a pretty good video on diagnosing these leaks from Scotty Kilmer, if you are interested:

The Most Popular P0456 Fixes

Below are the top PT Cruiser P0456 repairs:

• Replacing the gas cap
• Replacement for EVAP Line
• Replace charcoal canister
• Change the fuel tank

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.

You will need to find the cause of your Chrysler PT Cruiser throwing the P0456 code. This should help. Please feel free to add anything below.

Do you consider P0456 to be a serious concern?

While P0456 is not going to cause the PT Cruiser’s engine to stop running, it should not be treated lightly. There could be fuel contamination. Check your tank regularly to make sure there is no fuel leaking. It is best to have it checked and/or dealt with immediately.

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