GMC Acadia Code Diagnosis - OBDII

This is one of the most commonly encountered trouble codes for the GMC Acadia The Code P0496. Refers to a code that you receive when your Acadia is plugged into an OBDII scanner.

GMC Acadia P0496 Symptoms

The GMC Acadia P0496 code will frequently be associated with an irregular idle. To find the correct idle speed, your engine will start revving up and down. It will usually happen after you have purchased gas. Sometimes it might not even start at the station.

If you’re old enough to have driven a carbureted vehicle the old stomp the gas and crank the engine method does actually help start the car. The air fuel mixture is off.
Similar to P0420 GMC Acadia

GMC Acadia P0496 Meaning

P0496 stands for a universal OBDII Trouble Code. The code can be used regardless of the make and model of your vehicle. Technically, the code stands for:

Evaporative Emissions System High Purge Flow

The EVAP captures any fuel vapor in the fuel tank. They are then sent to the intake of the engine to start the normal combustion process.

If the GMC Acadia computer notices that the EVAP is not purging properly, the code P0496 OBDII will be thrown.

GMC Acadia P0496 Causes

Many things can lead to the GMC Acadia P0496 Trouble Code. The most frequent problems that could cause this code are listed below.

Vapor Canister Purge Valve– The most common culprit with the P0496 trouble code and the GMC Acadia is going to be the vapor canister purge valve. When it goes bad, it typically causes issues with the vehicle’s idle speed. It is particularly true after filling up your vehicle.

It’s really easy to replace. You will need to locate and delete a few clips. The following YouTube video demonstrates how to fix the problem.

PCM– It is possible that the engines computer system itself has gone bad and is registering a P0496 when it shouldn’t be. However, you shouldn't start there.

The wiring– It is possible for shorts in the wiring harness leading to the Vapor Canister Purge Valve has gone bad. You can check it.

Capacity for Fuel– A bad fuel cap can cause the P0496 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 it could save your GMC Acadia time and money by replacing it and seeing if it changes.

Oil Tank Pressure Sensor– If the fuel tank pressure sensor has gone bad, it can cause all sorts of problems, including the P0496 code.

Here’s a good video on it:

You will be successful in identifying the problem with Acadia. We trust this has helped. Please feel free to add anything below.