Volkswagen/Audi Error Code P0442: EVAP Emission System Small Leak Detected

If you own a Volkswagen or an Audi and get the P0442 code, all you need is an OBD-II scanner to figure out what’s wrong. This code will most likely say something along the lines of “EVAP Emission System Leak Detected (Small Leak)” on it. So, what exactly does it imply when the car displays the code P0442? It implies exactly what it says, which is that there is a tiny leak in the EVAP system (which stands for Evaporative Emission Control).

So, what exactly is the function of the EVAP system? The EVAP system ensures that no gas vapors are released into the atmosphere from the fuel tank or the fuel system. When this code appears, it almost often indicates that the N80 purge valve is defective in some way.

If I get a fault code P0442 for my VW or Audi, am I still allowed to drive?

Simply said, the answer is yes. The world will not end if this fault code appears. It is quite probable that you will see a decrease in fuel efficiency as well as an increase in emissions, both of which are undesirable outcomes, but they will not be serious to your car for the time being. Having said that, you won’t want to neglect this for a very long period of time, but it is an easy problem to diagnose and remedy as long as there isn’t a leak in the EVAP line.

P0442 VW/Audi Symptoms

• The Check Engine Light (also known as the CEL) is on
• Reduced efficiency of use of fuel
• An intensified odor of petrol
• A rise in emissions caused by fuel use

P0442 VW/Audi Engine Code: Possible Root Causes

• The gas cap is faulty or loose
• N80 purge valve failure
• EVAP hoses that are leaking or disconnected
• Charcoal canister for the EVAP system or the leak detecting pump is faulty (LDP)
• Sensor of the fuel tank’s pressure is failing
• Fuel tank leak

How to Diagnose and Repair an Engine Error P0442 on a Volkswagen or Audi

While the EPC Light and other fault codes might be challenging to diagnose, P0442 is usually quite straightforward to figure out since it relates to the EVAP system. To make the process of doing the work on your own more manageable, we have included below some tips and replacement components for the 2.0t engine. Depending on what components need to be changed, you might expect to pay between $100 and $600 if you were to take your car to the shop to have this code fixed.

Instructions for Replacing a Loose or Defective Gas Cap

About fifty percent of the time, this error message is generated as a result of a malfunctioning or loose gas cap. If that’s the case, you can do this in just 5 minutes and for about $15. Consequently, it goes without saying that beginning here is always going to be the finest option.

The Replacement of a N80 Purge Valve and Its Instructions

Another typical contributor to the occurrence of this engine code is the N80 purge valve. Again, this is not a particularly difficult DIY project, and the new component is relatively affordable. It would be in your best interest to try your hand at this do-it-yourself project before heading to the store.

How to Replace the Charcoal Canister in an EVAP System

The EVAP charcoal cylinder, which is basically responsible for absorbing any extra gas vapors emanating from the gas tank, is another rather typical cause of the P0442 code.

Instructions for Repairing or Replacing the EVAP Lines

This is definitely going to be the most difficult reason to identify, however it is conceivable that the EVAP hose is leaking or that it isn’t linked up properly, and that’s what’s causing the engine code. A smoke test is a routine procedure that is used to determine whether or not there is a leakage (video below). If you are not familiar with the workings of the engine, it is probably best to bring it to a repair shop for assistance. You may expect to pay close to two hundred dollars for this.

How to Change Out an Old Leak Detection Pump (LDP)

Finally, after browsing several online forums, we have discovered that the LDP is a contributing factor to the appearance of this engine error number. In the event that none of the solutions presented above are successful, then you may want to give this a try. However, the cost of the replacement component is rather high. It’s probably time to take it in for a professional inspection if the error message is still appearing.

Conclusion of P0442 for the VW

To summarize, if your Vw or Audi is showing a P0442 error code, the most probable reasons are a failing or faulty gas cap, a failed or defective N80 purging valve, or even the EVAP charcoal cylinder. All three of these components are located in the engine compartment. If you are obtaining this code, then you are allowed to drive on it for a short amount of time; however, it is not recommended that you ignore it for a prolonged period of time.

If you are seeking for used engines or manuals for a Volkswagen or Audi car that you do not see listed here, please let us know in the comments section and we will do everything in our power to help you. We really hope that this information was able to assist you in fixing your Volkswagen or Audi.

Further Reading: https://vwtuning.co/vw-audi-p0442-engine-code/