Here's some info on the Flex Fuel systems. I know fuel costs are very high in CA, compared to the rest of the states. Service info here explains that the Alcohol content is calculated through the Evap system and a virtual flex fuel sensor, so there is no alcohol content amount sensor anymore. So, allowing the vehicle to idle for a few minutes after refueling should help the system calculate the alcohol percentage. Another thing that I have seen is water in gas tanks, so if you're refueling at a station you don't normally use, it might be an issue with the storage tanks at that specific gas station. Because service info also states there should be no issue between switching back and forth between gas types as long as there is more than 3 gallons added (bottom of 1st diagram). So, you may have gotten some bad gas somewhere along the way, that's a very difficult diagnosis unless a fuel sample is taken and allowed to sit for a few minutes. The water and gas will separate.
As for looking for a vacuum leak, a smoke machine is the best way to start but finding Evap system leaks can also be very difficult. Especially when there is a small leak (0.02 in leak).
When smoke testing an Evap system you need to be careful, because most Evap systems max pressure when smoke testing is about 1psi, and the vent valve needs to be closed with a scan tool, so the system is sealed.
But depending on what codes are setting right now, this could all have been related. Since it's running better now, I'd be interested in knowing if any cylinder misfire codes are setting. The fuel trim code should have cleared on its own and been a history code, not current.
Most Evap systems have a test port with a Schrader valve that threads in opposite of a normal Schrader valve. This is one of the tools I use (4th diagram) when testing for Evap leaks, you'll notice on the green cap, it says 1 PSI max. But see what codes come back, you shouldnt have to reset the Alcohol content if the system is working correctly. A cylinder misfire might mess with that calculation.
Images (Click to make bigger)
Thursday, April 4th, 2024 AT 11:37 AM