Check Engine light, code P0456, fuel tank leaking

Hi,

That is a tough question to answer, not being there to see the vehicle. I can tell you the code is related to a leak in the evap system and is likely being caused by the tank leaking.

Also, the condition of the vehicle needs to be taken into consideration. If it runs good, you may want to consider repairs. It is very difficult to find anything that is worth having for a good price at this time.

Tell me, has it been confirmed that it is the tank leaking and not one of the hoses from the tank? You can check it somewhat easily. Under the rear seat is an access port to work on the fuel pump. There you will see the fuel lines. I would first confirm it isn't one of them that is the problem and not the tank.

Once you remove the rear seat, you will find an access port. Open it and inspect the top of the fuel pump and around it to see if there are any leaks that are visible. Pic 1 shows what you will see. Letter B is the fuel supply line.

Even if the tank is bad, a new original equipment one is under 50 dollars (OEM part number 312202F800) and labor is under 2 hours (1.6 hours). Unless the vehicle is in really unsafe condition, I would likely fix it. I don't know the labor rate, but multiply it by 1.6 and that should tell you what to expect for a labor charge. There may be a few other miscellaneous things, but nothing too expensive.

If you look at pic 2, it shows the retail cost of the fuel tank and the number of hours allowed for replacement.

If you want to replace it yourself, it's a bit messy, but you could do it. Check where I said and let me know what you find as far as a leak.

Let me know if you have questions or if I can help. I hope this information is helpful to you.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.

Angela,

That doesn't sound right. You don't find a fuel leak via a smoke test. That type of test is used to locate EVAP (evaporative emissions system) leaks. In other words, the hoses that are responsible for maintaining fuel vapors.

As far as repairs are concerned, a fuel tank (in my mind) is something that needs to be replaced if it is bad. You don't want it to rupture in the event of an accident. However, many people use them. Also, a new tank being $50.00 is so cheap, the repair kit is likely half the cost.

Has he told you exactly what is being replaced? Also, do you actually see gas leaking from the vehicle? I can't justify that cost for a fuel tank. It is not making sense to me. Also, let me know if this is someone you used in the past and if you trust them.

If this is nothing more than an EVAP leak, it's likely you could fix it for under 150.00, but again, I'm not completely clear about what you're being told.

Joe

Hi:
Yes, the smoke test makes sense for the code. As far as the receipt is concerned, all I can tell is they charge $125.00 an hour and are indicating the tank and additional labor.

So, you own them $125.00. Let's say they double the price on the tank, $100.00. Then, charge an additional 2 hours labor, $250.00. That totals $500.00 including the diagnostics. If there is a broken hose in the EVAP system, it shouldn't be more than $50.00. Why are they telling you $1,400.00? That is what is upsetting me. The labor and parts costs I attached above are from a certified manual for parts and labor prices.

Next, if there is a broken hose in the EVAP identified by the smoke test, that is where you could be possibly smelling gas from, but I can't confirm that without being there to see it.

Is it possible for you to remove the rear seat and open the access plate so we can see what is going on? It really isn't too hard. That is what the mechanic would have done. I'm sure he didn't remove the tank for inspection. Also, did they ever tell you what part of the EVAP system needs to be replaced?

I hope I'm not being a pain. LOL I just went through a similar issue on a Toyota Venza. The dealership wanted $2,600.00 to repair a charcoal canister and install rear shocks. I was able to do it for $1,700.00 less. It just drives me crazy.

Let me know.

Joe

Please understand, not being there is causing me to question things that aren't making sense. If there is another shop you trust or even a dealership, contact them and ask what replacing the fuel tank costs. Tell them you have the part number and retail price of the tank and flat rate times. You just want their confirmation on the price.

Hi,

It has been some time since I've done one of these, but I don't think you need any tools other than maybe a screwdriver. There are release buttons for the seat cushion. There is either one or two of them. See pic 1 below.

Press the release button and pull toward you and then up to remove the seat cushion,

Once it is removed, you will see the access port. See pic 2. Some of these had a screw holding them and others were secured with an adhesive. If there is no screw, gently pry upwards at each corner with a flat screwdriver to remove it.

Let me know if this helps or if you have questions.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.

You are very welcome. It bothers me when I hear things like this. Simply there is nothing concrete. Is the fuel tank leaking? Where from? There is an EVAP leak, what needs to be done to fix it? Why is the tank and labor price so high? There are too many variables that aren't adding up in my head. LOL Sorry. There may be a very rational reason for what is being said, I just would rather you keep the money in your pocket if possible.

Take care and let me know what you find. Also, once the port is open, if there is nothing obviously wet, cycle the key from off to on a couple of times to pressurize the system. If there is a leak, you should see it then.

Take care and I'll watch for your reply.

Joe

Hi,

I would think they should be able to show you. Anytime I do work, I always try to show the customer where the problem is and then return the faulty parts. I believe by law; the old parts need to be returned or at least offered to be returned. So, yes, I don't know why they wouldn't at least try.

Let me know what you find or if I can help in any way.

Joe