Ford F150 P0457: EVAP System – Leak Detected

P0457 This is an example of a common problem code for the Ford F150. Refers to a code that you get when your F150 is plugged into an a OBDII scanner. It indicates that an Evaporative Emission Control System (EVAPS) leak is P0457. This is similar to P0455, which indicates a large leak, and P0456 that indicate a small leak.

The P0457 issue is not usually a threat to your F150's driveability. Certainly anytime the service engine soon light is on though, it’s good to deal with it as soon as possible.

Ford F150 Definition P0457

P0457 refers to a general OBDII trouble code. The code can be used regardless of the make and model of the vehicle. Technically, the code stands for:

System Leak – Evaporative Emission System

The EVAP captures any fuel vapor in the fuel tank. They are then sent to the engines intake for ignition. When there is a leak in the Ford F150’s EVAP system, it will throw the P0457 OBDII Code.

Ford F150 P0457 OBDII Symptoms

The P0457 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 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 system is for fuel vapor and does not affect the F150's engine.

F150 P0457 Trouble code Causes

P0457 can be triggered by many factors in the Ford F150. If your F150 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.

• Evap System 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 code P0457. You should look for a hole or a tear in the code. This is one of most frequent causes for the code.
• Vapor Canister Purge Valve– One of the most common causes of the P0457 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 P0457 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 F150 Diagnosis - P0457

To diagnose the problem with your Ford F150's P0457, a mechanic can use a variety of tools. The most commonly used methods to diagnose this code are:

• The mechanic will usually check for additional 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 P0457, he or she will usually Check out the EVAP System. These include the line and purge valve.
• 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.
• Monitoring and checking the fuel tank pressure is a must.
• 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:

Most common P0457 fixes

Below are the top F150 P0457 solutions:

• Replacement of 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 easiest to replace and the least costly.

Here’s a great video on How to test your gas tank.

It's a good idea to try and figure out why your Ford F150 is throwing the code P0457. We trust this helped. Please feel free to add anything below.

Are P0457 Serious Concerns?

While P0457 is not going to cause the F150’s engine to stop running, it should not be treated lightly. Fuel leaks could be a problem. Check your fuel level to make sure it is not leaked. You should immediately take it in for repair or replacement.

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