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P0440 — Evaporative Emission System Malfunction

Low Severity  ·  Emissions

OBD-II code P0440 means your vehicle's ECU detected: Evaporative Emission System Malfunction. Below: causes, step-by-step fixes, and repair cost — free, no signup needed.

Low severity — safe to drive in most cases. Clear the code and monitor. If it returns, have it inspected.
Typical Repair Cost
$20–$500
Parts + labor, national average
Severity
Low
Monitor — low urgency
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Common Causes of P0440

  • Loose or missing gas cap (most common)
  • Cracked EVAP hose
  • Bad purge valve
  • Failed EVAP canister
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How to Fix Code P0440

1
Tighten or replace gas cap first ($10–$25 — fixes 30% of cases)
2
Inspect EVAP hoses for cracks
3
Test purge solenoid valve ($50–$150)
4
Replace EVAP canister if needed

FAQ — Code P0440

What does OBD-II code P0440 mean?
P0440 means your vehicle's onboard computer detected: Evaporative Emission System Malfunction. This is a low-severity code in the Emissions category.
How much does it cost to fix code P0440?
Typical repair cost for P0440 is $20–$500 including parts and labor. Costs vary by vehicle make, model, and location. A free scan at AutoZone or O'Reilly is a good first step.
Can I drive my car with code P0440?
Code P0440 is low severity. In most cases you can drive normally, but clear the code and monitor whether it returns.
What are the most common causes of P0440?
The most common causes are: Loose or missing gas cap (most common), Cracked EVAP hose, Bad purge valve, Failed EVAP canister. Always start with the cheapest diagnosis step before replacing parts.
Will code P0440 clear itself?
Code P0440 will clear itself after the underlying issue is fixed and the ECU completes several successful drive cycles. Clearing it without fixing the root cause only masks the problem temporarily.

Is P0440 showing on your car?

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OBD-II code data is based on SAE J2012 standards and general repair industry data. Repair costs are national averages and vary by vehicle, location, and shop. Always consult a qualified mechanic for a diagnosis specific to your vehicle.