Symptoms of a Faulty or Faulty Evaporative Emissions Control System Reservoir

Common signs include the Check Engine light coming on, the smell of raw fuel coming from the rear of the vehicle, and a ruptured or leaking fuel tank.

The smell of gasoline is hard to miss, and even harder not to notice when you smell it. It is caustic and burns the nose, can be very dangerous if inhaled and cause nausea, headaches and breathing problems. The amount of fuel vapor that can exit the car is strictly regulated, and the EVAP control canister helps keep everything in working order with valves, hoses, activated charcoal canister, as well as an airtight gas tank cap.

The fuel will vaporize as vapor and this vapor is stored in the carbon filter for later use in the engine as an important part of the air/fuel mixture. Particulate matter can accumulate on the canister of the emission control system and cause damage to valves and solenoids, which can even lead to cracking of the activated carbon canister itself. While a cracked or dirty canister is not an immediate concern, the fact that fuel or fuel vapors can leak out is a big problem and needs to be dealt with immediately.

1. Check if the engine light is on

The Check Engine Light can come on for dozens of different reasons, but if you see this particular light in combination with a strong smell of gasoline fumes, your EVAP control canister may be the problem.

2. The smell of raw fuel

If you smell raw fuel and you're standing near the back of your car, it's possible this emissions-critical part is failing and allowing fuel to leak out of your gas tank.

3. Destroyed or leaking fuel tank

If the EVAP canister fails, the gas tank can actually collapse - if the car has a solid fuel gas cap. If a whistling sound is heard when the cover is removed, suspect a ventilation problem. There is no maintenance schedule for this particular part, but the canister can easily become clogged or damaged and start leaking. If this happens, be sure to contact a mechanic as soon as possible.

AvtoTachki simplifies EVAP tank repair as our field mechanics will come to your home or office to diagnose and repair your vehicle.