Ford Edge P0456: EVAP System – Small Leak

This is one of the most commonly encountered trouble codes for the Ford Edge Is the Code P0456. The trouble code refers to a number you receive when your Edge is plugged into an a OBDII scanner. A P0456 code indicates that there may be a slight leakage in the evaporative exhaust control system. This code is often found with or related to P0420,P0441 and, very rarely, P0440.

The P0456 issue is not usually a threat to your Edge'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 Ford Edge, 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.

Ford Edge 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 speaking, it stands for:

System Leakage in the Smallest Detail – Evaporative Emission System

The EVAP captures any fuel vapor in the fuel tank, and transmits it to an engines intake for ignition. When there is a small leak in the Ford Edge’s EVAP system, it will throw the P0456 OBDII Code. If there is a large leak, it’ll throw P0455.

Ford Edge P0456 OBDII Symptoms

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

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

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. But, it won’t affect the way the engine itself runs. The EVAP technology deals only with the fuel vapor but not how the engine runs in Edge.

Edge P0456 Trouble code Causes

P0456 Trouble code can occur for many reasons in the Ford Edge. If your Edge 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. The P0456 error code will be generated. 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 P0456 code is the vapor canister purge valve. It’s really easy to replace. You'll need to identify and remove a few clips.
• 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 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. It may be worth your time to get that message and a P0456 to ensure you don't waste any money.
• Fuel Filler Neck– There is often a gasket where the fuel filler neck connects with the gas tank. It is possible for this gasket to dry, particularly if vehicles spend a lot of time in dry environments. When it dries out, the fuel tank can’t hold pressure anymore.

Ford Edge Diagnostics - P0456

To diagnose the problem with your Ford Edge's P0456, a mechanic can use a variety of tools. The most commonly used methods to diagnose this code are:

• A 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 P0456, he or she will usually Take a look at the EVAP system. It includes the purge valve and line as well as the canister.
• To ensure that the cap can withstand pressure, the mechanic will check it. 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.
• The mechanic will then perform the following tests after completing the above-mentioned checks:
• 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:

Most common P0456 fixes

Below are the top Edge P0456 fix requests:

• Replacement of gas cap
• Replacing EVAP lines
• Replace charcoal canister
• Replacing the fuel tank

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 find the root cause of your Ford Edge throwing the P0456 error code. We trust this helped. You can add any additional information by leaving a comment.

Do you consider P0456 to be a serious concern?

While P0456 is not going to cause the Edge’s engine to stop running, it should not be treated lightly. There could be fuel contamination. 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.

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