Ford Transit Connect P0456: EVAP System – Small Leak

The most frequent trouble code with the Ford Transit Connect The Code P0456. This is the trouble code that you get when you connect your Transit Connect to a OBDII scanner. A P0456 code indicates that there may be a slight leakage in the evaporative exhaust control system. It is sometimes found along with other codes such as P0440, P0441, or very frequently P0440.

Normally, P0456 does not pose a danger to the Transit Connect's ability to drive. 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 Transit Connect, it is actually referring to the amount of pressure lost, and not the physical size of the leak. They can also be very minor.

Ford Transit Connect Definition P0456

The universal OBDII code P0456 can be used to diagnose trouble codes. It means that no matter what make or model vehicle you have, this code will still mean the exact same thing (Transit Connect and not). Technically the code is:

System Leakage in the Smallest Detail – Evaporative Emission System

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

Ford Transit Connect OBDII code Symptoms

The P0456 code is usually not accompanied with any other symptoms than those listed. The smell of gas And the service engine soon light.

The fuel tank and fuel filler tubes should smell particularly strong.

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 technology deals only with the fuel vapor. It does not impact the performance of the Transit Connect's engine.

Transit Connect Trouble Code P0456

P0456 can occur for many reasons in Ford Transit Connect. If your Transit Connect 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 off your code. These were listed alphabetically, in decreasing order of likelihood.

• Evap 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 P0456. 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. 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. 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 Transit Connect Diagnosis - P0456

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

• The mechanic will 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 Check out the EVAP System. It includes the purge valve and line as well as the 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.
• 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:

The Most Popular P0456 Fixes

These are some of the most popular Transit Connect P0456 fix:

• 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 easiest to replace and the least costly.

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

We wish you all the best in finding out why your Ford Transit Connect is throwing the P0456 code. This should help. You can add any additional information by leaving a comment.

Are P0456 Serious Concerns?

While P0456 is not going to cause the Transit Connect’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.

Feel free to add anything to the article by leaving a comment. Thanks!