How long does a charcoal canister last

There are all kinds of features built into your vehicle that help ensure that amount of gasoline vapors that escape from your vehicle are kept to zero or a very small amount. These kinds of fumes can be quite dangerous not just...

How long does a charcoal canister last

There are all kinds of features built into your vehicle that help ensure that amount of gasoline vapors that escape from your vehicle are kept to zero or a very small amount. These kinds of fumes can be quite dangerous not just to the environment, but to your health. Breathing them in can cause nausea, dizziness, and headaches.

The evaporative emission control canister is a part that is used to help limit these harmful vapors. The canister works by collecting the fuel vapors that are created in the fuel tank. The canister is also referred to as a charcoal canister since there is literally a brick of charcoal in it. Once the canister collects the vapors, they are then purged so they can be burned off by combustion.

Unfortunately dirt, debris, and dust can start to build inside the emission control canister over time, which will then affect the valves and vent solenoids that work in conjunction with the canister. Once this happens, the system will no longer work as it should. There is also the fact that the charcoal canister can get clogged up due to moisture, or even crack and break. Much of its lifespan depends on where you drive and how many contaminants make it into the canister. It's a good idea to have it diagnosed by a certified mechanic if you suspect it is faulty. Here’s a look at some signs that it may be time to have the evaporative emission control canister replaced:

  • Once the canister becomes clogged, leaking, or broken, you will likely start to smell an odor coming from around the fuel tank. This will smell like raw fuel, so it is quite noticeable.

  • The Check Engine Light will most likely come on once the problem progresses. You'll need to have the computer codes read by a professional mechanic so they can determine the exact cause for the light to come on.

  • Now keep in mind, once this part fails it's very important to have it replaced immediately. If you are leaking fuel vapors it can make you feel quite ill. If fuel starts to leak, then you have a potential fire hazard on your hands.

The evaporative emission control canister ensures that the harmful fuel vapors aren’t released into the air, and left for you to breathe in. If you’re experiencing any of the above mentioned symptoms and suspect your evaporative emission control canister is in need of replacement, get a diagnostic or book an evaporative emission control canister replacement service with a professional mechanic.



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Michael

21 years of experience

244 reviews

Michael

21 years of experience

Chevrolet Malibu L4-2.4L - Evaporative Emission Control Canister - Moreno Valley, California

He was always right on time and he was honest with me about what needed to be done. Ty! Mike great experience will use him again!

Chevrolet Cruze - Evaporative Emission Control Canister - Rancho Cucamonga, California

Unbelievable, Michael got here early and right to work. He was professional and courteous. He did the job promised in the time allotted. I will definitely use and recommend Michael to everyone I know. Thank you Michael.

Shaun

10 years of experience

542 reviews

Shaun

10 years of experience

Ford Escape L4-2.5L - Evaporative Emission Control Canister - Litchfield Park, Arizona

Great mechanical knowledge and even better customer service! I will request him again and would recommend him to others!

Kia Optima - Evaporative Emission Control Canister - Phoenix, Arizona

As I have come to expect. Shaun got straight to work. He quickly assessed the situation. The problem was resolved by replacing the needed parts. Shaun is both friendly and professional. I will definitely recommend him to my friends and family.

Norberto

14 years of experience

Kia Spectra L4-2.0L - Evaporative Emission Control Canister Replacement - Austell, Georgia

Norberto communicated continuously with me about the service. He has great customer service skills.

Claud

8 years of experience

475 reviews

Claud

8 years of experience

Lincoln MKS V6-3.7L - Evaporative Emission Control Canister - Macomb, Michigan

Claud is not only pleasant, friendly, and polite, he's an excellent and knowledgeable mechanic. I will be requesting him again for my son's vehicle and for more work on mine. Thank you, Claud!

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When should a charcoal canister be replaced?

There are at least a few reasons you might need to replace the canister. Symptoms you may notice from a faulty charcoal canister might include check engine light (CEL), difficulty refueling, poor engine performance, excessive fuel odor, or the reduced fuel economy.

Do charcoal canisters wear out?

the charcoal canister seldom fails and should last the life of the car. in most cases, evap system problems are not caused by the canister itself but by related valves. in some rare instances, however, the canister can crack or become clogged.

What are the symptoms of a clogged charcoal canister?

Here are a few most common bad charcoal canister symptoms to keep an eye out for..
High Rate of Emissions. This is obvious since the charcoal canister's job is to trap toxic vapors. ... .
Fuel Odor in the Cabin. ... .
Weak Engine Performance. ... .
Bad Fuel Economy. ... .
Pinging Sounds from the Engine. ... .
Trouble Starting Engine..

How does a charcoal canister get damaged?

One of the most common charcoal canister problems is caused by “topping off” your gas tank, which can cause an overflow of fuel to flood the canister.