2003 Neon "EVAP Emission Control System Leak Very Small"

My Neon, 49k miles, recently has activated the check engine light. Advance Auto read the OBDII and got a code ?PO456 EVAP Emission Control System Leak Very Small? - I believe that is the correct code, I transcribed it into my maintanence log and no longer have the original printout. I know the description is correct although something tells me I might have transposed a number. Anyhow...

I checked the gas cap and later replaced it. I checked all the hoses I could find under the hood. The large hose from the throttle body to intake manifold was loose (left that way by the dealer a couple years back when the rebuilt the transmission I believe) so I tightened it. Air cleaner is new and properly seated in place. I found no loose or cracked hoses as far as I could see. If I clear the light by lifing the battery lead it will stay off for about 2 weeks and then come back on with the same code.

The local dealer has provided most unsatisfactory service on the numerous times the car was in for warranty work so I would rather not return it to them. I would appreciate any advice as to other things I might check. My other, and probably better, alternative is to trade the thing in on a Toyota.

Regards,

Ken

Reply to
Ken
Loading thread data ...

The fault code is a 0.20 leak. Very small and may only leak when the vehicle is cold. Once warmed up the rubber could seal and the leak not be found. A smoke machine is needed to locate this leak. The air cleaner has nothing to do with it. All emissions related hoses that carry vapors from the tank to the engine are effected. A purge control valve that is not seating its pintle may also cause this code to set and will not show a leak using the smoke machine . you could trade it in for a Toyota but they have the same system and in due time leaks will develop.

Glenn Beasley Chrysler Tech

Reply to
maxpower

Thanks for the input Glenn. I can trace all the hoses on my 1980 MGB and tell you what they are for. I have not taken the time to map out the Neon. Guess I may have to.

We have 2 Neons. The wife's '95 has been a great little daily driver. The 2003 has been an absolute POS. It was in the dealership 5 (five) times to fix the water leak which filled the passenger floorboard when it rained. The transmission quit at about 20K miles. The bushings in the front suspension arms disintegrated. The 4 speed auto transmission has never worked as I think it should - does not want to go into top gear below 45 mph etc.

All in all this car is tied for first place as the sorriest, most aggravating cars I have ever owned (with a 1978 Ford Mustang II - that is BAD).

Thanks again,

Ken

Reply to
Ken

Well, now we have no Neons. The 2003, aka the blue turd, was traded for a Toyota Corolla. The '95 was donated to my step-son to use as a drive to work beater - better gas mileage than his truck.

Good bye Dodge. Perhaps the Chinese will buy you - the did buy MG-Rover.

Ken

Reply to
Ken

MotorsForum website is not affiliated with any of the manufacturers or service providers discussed here. All logos and trade names are the property of their respective owners.