P043E: Evaporative Emission System Leak Detection Reference Orifice Low Flow
2 vehicles · 1 makes · $150-$500 repair
Most Reported On
P043E is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning “Evaporative Emission System Leak Detection Reference Orifice Low Flow.” Generic OBD-II code and the counterpart to P043F. The PCM found flow through the EVAP leak detection reference orifice to be lower than specification, most often because debris, dust, mud or insect nesting has partially clogged the very small (about 0.02 in) orifice tube inside the leak detection pump module. The EVAP leak monitor cannot calibrate itself, so real fuel-vapor leaks may go undetected. Symptoms are usually limited to a check engine light, but the vehicle will fail an emissions inspection. It rarely appears alone and commonly accompanies P043F, P2401, P2402 or P2419. This code is most commonly reported on 2006-2010 Toyota RAV4, and 2011-2020 Toyota Sienna (L, LE, SE, XLE, Limited), with repair costs ranging from $150 to $500.
Common Causes
Typical Repair Cost
Based on 2 documented vehicle-specific issues. Actual cost depends on root cause and vehicle.
Diagnostic Tools
This is a powertrain code, so a basic OBD-II reader can read it. These read P043E.
ANCEL AD310 Classic OBD-II Scanner
by ANCEL
A simple code reader for engine (P) codes on many compatible OBD-II vehicles. It does not support every vehicle or hybrid/EV application, and it does NOT read body, chassis or network codes; confirm exact-vehicle compatibility before buying.
- Read & clear engine (P) codes
- View freeze frame data
- I/M readiness status
- No batteries or app needed
BlueDriver Pro Bluetooth Scanner
by BlueDriver
Bluetooth scanner with a companion app that reads beyond the engine module — ABS, SRS and transmission — plus manufacturer-specific codes on many vehicles.
- Enhanced diagnostics (ABS, SRS, transmission)
- Repair Reports with verified fixes
- Smog check readiness
- Free app (iOS & Android)
LAUNCH CRP123X V3.0 Elite OBD-II Scanner
by LAUNCH
Handheld scanner covering the four major systems (engine, transmission, ABS, SRS) with live data streaming and graphing.
- Engine, transmission, ABS, SRS diagnostics
- Live data stream & graphing
- AutoVIN for vehicle identification
- Free lifetime updates via Wi-Fi
Autel MaxiCOM MK808S Diagnostic Tool
by Autel
Shop-level tablet with all-system coverage and bi-directional control, so you can command a module rather than only read it.
- All-system diagnostics (25+ modules)
- Bi-directional control & active tests
- Oil reset, EPB, BMS, TPMS, injector coding
- 7-inch touchscreen with Android OS
What you can do yourself, and what needs a shop
Reading the code, clearing it, and watching whether it returns is a driveway job with the right scanner. These steps are not:
- Module programming or software updates — needs the manufacturer software or a J2534 pass-through with a paid subscription.
- Replacing a control module — most are VIN-programmed and immobilizer-registered, so a new one does nothing until it is coded to your car.
- Airbag/SRS component work — a stored fault can deploy a live device.
If the vehicle is still under warranty, check for an open recall or technical service bulletin before buying anything — the repair may already be covered.
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FAQ
What does P043E mean?
P043E stands for "Evaporative Emission System Leak Detection Reference Orifice Low Flow." Generic OBD-II code and the counterpart to P043F. The PCM found flow through the EVAP leak detection reference orifice to be lower than specification, most often because debris, dust, mud or insect nesting has partially clogged the very small (about 0.02 in) orifice tube inside the leak detection pump module. The EVAP leak monitor cannot calibrate itself, so real fuel-vapor leaks may go undetected. Symptoms are usually limited to a check engine light, but the vehicle will fail an emissions inspection. It rarely appears alone and commonly accompanies P043F, P2401, P2402 or P2419.
What are the most common causes of P043E?
The most common causes of P043E are: Clogged or restricted reference orifice inside the EVAP leak detection pump/module, Debris, dust, or insect nesting in the EVAP vent line or canister vent filter, Failed EVAP leak detection pump assembly, Pinched, kinked, or collapsed EVAP hose to the module, Wiring or connector fault in the leak detection pump circuit, PCM fault or outdated calibration. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P043E?
Repair costs for P043E range from $150 to $500, depending on the vehicle and root cause.
Which vehicles are affected by P043E?
Au7o has documented P043E across 2 vehicle models from 1 manufacturers: Toyota.
Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.