Ford Escape P0456: EVAP System – Small Leak

This is one of the most commonly encountered trouble codes for the Ford Escape The Code P0456. This is the trouble code that you get when you plug in your Escape to a OBDII scanner. The code P0456 indicates that the evaporative emissions control system has a tiny leak. This code is often found with or related to P0440, P0441 and P0440.

The P0456 issue is not usually a threat to your Escape'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 Escape, 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 Escape P0456 Definition

P0456 stands for a universal OBDII code. The code can be used to escape or repair any vehicle regardless of make and model. Technically speaking, it stands for:

It is a system Leakage of Small Size – Evaporative Emission System

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

Ford Escape P0456 OBDII Code Symptoms

The P0456 code is usually not accompanied with any other symptoms than those listed. Smells like gas The service engine soon light.

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

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. It does not impact the performance of the Escape engine.

Get Out of Trouble with P0456

P0456 can occur for many reasons in Ford Escape. If your Escape 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.

These are some of the most frequent problems that can throw off the code. They're listed in alphabetical order, from the most likely to the least.

• Evap Hose– 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. It should be checked for tears or holes. This is the leading cause of 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 will need to locate and take out 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. 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- Ford Escape

The mechanic will have a lot of different tools at his disposal in order to determine the cause of your Ford Escape P0456. The most commonly used methods to diagnose this code are:

• A mechanic will often 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 P0456, he or she will usually Take a look at the EVAP system. These include the line and purge valve.
• 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.
• 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

These are some of the most popular Escape P0456 solutions:

• Replacing the gas cap
• Replacing EVAP lines
• Replace charcoal canister
• Replacing 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 most cost-effective and easiest to replace.

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

We wish you all the best in finding out why your Ford Escape is throwing the code P0456. We trust this helped. You can add any additional information by leaving a comment.

Are P0456 Serious Concerns?

While P0456 is not going to cause the Escape’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. You should immediately take it in for repair or replacement.

Please leave comments below if you have any suggestions. Thanks!