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Service Engine Soon Light

UPSGuy

Full Member
Joined
Nov 2, 2002
Messages
46
Location
La Crescenta, CA
I have had a recurring problem and am wondering if anyone else has had the same one. Since December 12, 2002 the service engine soon light has come on 5 times. The last time was February 22, 2003. I keep getting the same code P0442 which I am told has something to do with the fuel system. Probably a leak. I know that if you leave the gas cap off or loose that can trigger the same code but everything check out and I still get that light glowing in my face every 2 to 3 weeks. The dealer fixed a loose wire on the computer (PCM?), replaced the gasket on the gas tank for the fuel pump, and a solenoid under the hood, and it still came on. The last time I took it in the dealer called GM and they were no help at all. GM had no suggestions as to what the problem might be or any remedy. Help!

Rick
 
and make sure the gas cap is tight .... should tighten in down until it clicks at least once ... I had the same problem with my 99 Grand Prix ... dealer said to tighten the cap until it clicks .... fill the tank ... tighten the cap for 3 clicks .... no more SES light ... and it has been almost 2 years now
 
P0442 is an Evapoative system leak detected - It could be the gas cap but the cap gets the blame far too often - it can be any portion of the fuel evaporative recovery and/or purge system. This system needs to be smoke or pressure tested to find either the leak or possible failed component. It may have a bad valve or sensor that signals the ECM that the system has a leak when in fact it does not. This is by far the most common code I see in my shop - If we fail to find a leak or a component that is malfunctioning we clear codes and send people on their way until it happens again - it sometimes takes a couple times to narrow it down. The cap is usually what the shops say when they dont want to spend the time to properly test the entire system. Be patient and persistant - it is possible to find and repair. ;)
 
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