Code P1457 EVAP control system leakage (EVAP canister area)

MUSICOLLECTOR

MEMBER
1999 HONDA ACCORD
49,000 MILES

I was surprised to see the engine light come on on my four cylinder as I have never ever had a major problem with it for the 49,000 miles I have put on it since new. So I connected a scanner which gave me, "P1457, Evap control system leakage (Evap canister area)". After I unhooked the scanner, the light has gone off and stayed off for the forty miles I have driven since. I have not gassed up since then. Should I leave it as is?

1 Reply

STEVE W.

MECHANIC
13,480 POSTS

That code means the EVAP test showed a small leak. The most common cause for it is a bad seal on the gas cap or rust/dirt in the area where the seal contacts the filler neck. I usually just scrub the filler with a dish scrubber and wipe it clean, then apply a thin coat of petroleum jelly to the seal.

The next most common is the control valve in the rear on the charcoal canister. The solenoid valve shaft gets rusted/dirty and causes it to stick. If your scan tool allows bi-directional control of the valves in the EVAP system I have seen good results by simply cycling the valves a few times to clean the crud away.

Both of these can be made worse if the temperatures get cold where you are. The parts get cold and stiff. If the light is off and does not come back, you could leave it. If it comes back with the same code then test the above items.