Description of the P0445 fault code.
OBD2 Error Codes

P0445 Short circuit in the purge valve circuit of the fuel vapor control system

26.05.2022 /

P0445 – OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description

Trouble code P0445 indicates a problem with the evaporative control system purge solenoid valve.

What does the fault code mean P0445?

Trouble code P0445 indicates a problem with the purge solenoid valve in the evaporative control system. This code means that the solenoid valve, which controls the flow of fuel vapor into the engine for combustion, is not functioning properly.

Fault code P0445.

Possible reasons

Several possible reasons for the P0445 trouble code:

  • Faulty purge solenoid valve: The most common and likely source of the problem is a faulty purge solenoid valve that is not opening or closing properly.
  • Damaged wires or connectors: The wires connected to the purge solenoid valve may be damaged, broken, or have poor connections. Also, the connectors may be oxidized or dirty.
  • Valve position sensor malfunction: If the evaporative emission control system has a valve position sensor, a malfunction of this sensor may also cause the P0445 code to appear.
  • Problems with the evaporative emission system: In addition to the purge valve itself, leaks or damage to other evaporative emission system components can cause the P0445 code.
  • Engine Control Module (ECM) malfunction: In rare cases, the problem may be due to a faulty engine control module that is unable to operate the purge valve correctly.

These possible causes should be considered as a starting point when diagnosing the P0445 trouble code, but more detailed examination and diagnosis may be required to pinpoint the problem.

What are the symptoms of a fault code? P0445?

Symptoms for DTC P0445 may include the following:

  • The “Check Engine” light comes on: The main sign of a problem may be the “Check Engine” light on the car’s dashboard coming on. This is usually the first sign that something is wrong with the evaporative emission control system.
  • Erratic or unstable engine: A faulty purge valve may cause the engine to run rough, shaking or idling rough.
  • Degraded performance: A malfunction in the evaporative emission control system may also result in poor engine performance or poor throttle response.
  • Fuel smell: If fuel vapor recovery system leaks, there may be a fuel smell around the vehicle, especially in the fuel tank area.
  • Loss of fuel: If the purge valve or other components of the evaporative emission system malfunction, fuel loss may occur, resulting in increased fuel consumption and reduced tank reserve.

It is important to note that symptoms may vary depending on the specific cause of the P0445 trouble code and the vehicle model. If you notice any of the above symptoms, it is recommended that you contact a professional for diagnosis and repair.

How to diagnose a fault code P0445?

To diagnose DTC P0445, follow these steps:

  1. Checking the error code: Use a diagnostic tool to read the P0445 fault code from the Engine Control Module (ECM). Record this code for later analysis.
  2. Visual inspection: Inspect the electrical connections and wires associated with the purge solenoid valve. Check them for damage, corrosion or breaks.
  3. Purge Solenoid Valve Testing: Use a multimeter to check the electrical signal supplied to the purge solenoid valve when the engine is running. Check that voltage is being supplied to the valve according to the vehicle manufacturer's instructions.
  4. Valve position sensor testing (if equipped): If a valve position sensor is installed in the evaporative emission system, check its operation. Make sure it is sending the correct signals to the ECM.
  5. Smoke test (optional): Perform a smoke test to detect leaks in the evaporative emission system. Smoke is introduced into the system, and then the presence of leaks is checked using a special device.
  6. Checking the Engine Control Module (ECM): In rare cases, when all of the above checks do not show problems, additional ECM diagnostics may be required to identify possible problems.

After performing diagnostics and determining the cause of the malfunction, you can begin to repair or replace parts in accordance with the identified problems.

Diagnostic errors

When diagnosing DTC P0445, the following errors may occur:

  • Electrical Connection Test Failed: Incorrect or insufficient inspection of electrical connections, wires and connectors may cause a problem to be missed, which may be due to corrosion, breakage or poor contact.
  • Faulty purge valve: Sometimes mechanics may assume that the problem is with the purge valve without conducting a full diagnosis, which can lead to unnecessary part replacement.
  • Ignoring other evaporative emission system components: When setting a P0445 code, do not ignore other evaporative emission system components such as sensors or the charcoal canister. Failure to correctly identify the problem can lead to additional errors and unnecessary part replacements.
  • No smoke test: Some mechanics may skip the smoke test step, which may result in missing evaporative system leaks, especially if they are not visible to the naked eye.
  • Ignoring other error codes: Please note that the P0445 code may be accompanied by other error codes, so it is important to carry out a comprehensive diagnosis and correct all identified problems.

To avoid these errors, it is recommended to carry out a complete and systematic diagnosis using appropriate equipment and methods, and follow the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations.

How serious is the fault code? P0445?

Trouble code P0445 is usually not critical and the vehicle may continue to drive when it appears. This does not mean that the problem can be ignored.

Although the vehicle may continue to operate, the P0445 code indicates a problem with the evaporative emission control system, which may result in increased emissions and deterioration of the vehicle's environmental performance.

Moreover, if the problem is not corrected, it may result in further deterioration of engine performance and increased fuel consumption, as well as damage to other components of the evaporative emission control system.

Therefore, it is recommended that you have the problem diagnosed and repaired by a qualified auto mechanic as soon as possible after the P0445 code appears.

What repair will help eliminate the code? P0445?

To resolve DTC P0445, perform the following repair steps:

  1. Checking and replacing the purge valve: If the problem is due to a malfunction of the purge solenoid valve, it must be checked for functionality. If the valve does not open or close properly, it should be replaced.
  2. Checking and replacing the valve position sensor (if equipped): If the evaporative emission control system has a valve position sensor that monitors the position of the purge valve, and a malfunction of the sensor causes the P0445 code to appear, the sensor should also be checked and replaced if necessary.
  3. Checking and restoring electrical connections: Carefully check the electrical connections and wiring associated with the purge solenoid valve. Make sure the connections are not oxidized, damaged and make good contact.
  4. Diagnostics and repair of other components of the fuel vapor recovery system: If the cause of P0445 is not related to the purge valve, additional diagnostics and repairs to other system components, such as the carbon canister or sensors, may be required.
  5. Clearing the error code: After the necessary repairs have been carried out, the P0445 error code should be cleared using a diagnostic scan tool. This will ensure that the problem has been successfully resolved.

It is recommended that repairs be carried out by a qualified auto mechanic who can accurately determine the cause of the problem and carry out the necessary repair work.

How to Fix P0445 Engine Code in 3 Minutes [2 DIY Methods / Only $4.33]

P0445 – Brand-specific information

Trouble code P0445 can be found on different makes of cars, and its meaning may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer, some examples:

These are just some examples of P0445 codes for various car brands. For your specific make and model, it is recommended that you consult your repair or service manual for more accurate information.

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