P0441: Evaporative Emission Control System Incorrect Purge Flow

What Does P0441 Mean?

P0441 is an EVAP control system powertrain diagnostic trouble code. It is only set on vehicles that can ‘monitor’ if the ‘purge flow’ is correct or not. Most all with a few exceptions are equipped with either a Purge Flow Sensor or Leak Detection Pump. This code indicates the EVAP control system is not functioning correctly.

The EVAP system is an emissions control system intended to prevent fuel vapors from escaping to the atmosphere. It is made up of many parts including fuel vapor lines, gas cap, carbon canister, purge valve, vent valve, monitoring sensors and the powertrain control module/computer.

The system operates by venting fuel vapors through the vent hoses to the carbon canister where they are trapped and stored. When the engine is running and the appropriate running and driving conditions are met, the purge valve allows the stored fuel vapors to purge from the carbon canister and enter the engine intake system. This prevents harmful fuel vapors from entering the atmosphere.

What Are the Symptoms of Code P0441?

Occasionally you may smell gas fumes when this code is set but not usually. There are typically no noticeable symptoms of this problem. The Check Engine Light and OBD-II code is the only way to be made aware there is a problem.

What Causes a P0441 Code?

Unfortunately, finding the cause of the OBD-II scanner error code P0441 problem can be difficult. There are several components in the EVAP system and if any of them are malfunctioning or leaking, the error code can be triggered. These are a few possible causes that may occur:

• A line or canister in the EVAP system is cracked or broken
• The purge valve solenoid is faulty
• Insufficient vacuum supply to the EVAP system
• There is an open or short in the voltage feed circuit to the purge valve solenoid
• The Purge Flow Sensor or Leak Detection Pump has failed
• There is corrosion or electrical resistance in the purge valve connector

The above are the more common causes of the problem. However, there are a few rarer problems that can also cause the issue:

• There is a restriction in the EVAP system
• The powertrain control module is faulty
• There is an open in the powertrain control module command circuit

The code can be tripped because the EVAP system is unable to hold a specified amount of vacuum. Therefore, degrading parts that fail to hold a complete seal can cause the problem. Additionally, the code can occur after the fuel pump has been replaced if the seal isn’t installed properly. If you have made changes or fixes to your fuel system recently, that is a possible cause of the error code.

How Do I Fix Trouble Code P0441?

Fixing this trouble code can be a challenge because finding the specific cause of the problem may require replacing possible culprits. Start by checking the EVAP lines and canister for any physical breaks or cracks. This requires a close visual inspection as leaks may be caused by even minor damage. A smoke leak detection test can help identify possible leaks.

Test the fuel tank pressure readings to ensure the fuel tank pressure sensor is working properly. Inspect the fuel cap and ensure that it fits well and can hold a seal.

Inspect and repair open or short circuits in the voltage feed circuit to the purge solenoid. Do the same for the PCM purge command circuit. Test the purge connector for resistance and repair it if necessary.

If you have not diagnosed and fixed the problem, you can try replacing the purge valve solenoid or the purge flow sensor but it is best to diagnose the problem rather than guessing and changing a lot of parts unnecessarily. You can get the parts you need at your local AutoZone Store. If the job is too big for you, seek out one of our Preferred Shops to help you do the job.