P0442 on Toyota
Evaporative Emission Control System Leak Detected (Small Leak)
P0442 on Toyota vehicles indicates evaporative emission control system leak detected (small leak). Au7o has documented this code across 5 Toyota models — most commonly on Camry, Corolla, FJ Cruiser. This emissions code means the evaporative emission (EVAP) control system has detected a small leak. The EVAP system seals the fuel tank and captures gasoline vapors, routing them to be burned in the engine instead of escaping into the air, and the computer periodically pressure- or vacuum-tests the system to confirm it's sealed. A small leak the size of about a 0.040-inch hole will set this code. By far the most common and cheapest cause is a loose, damaged, or missing gas cap, so that's the first thing to check, though any cracked hose or worn seal in the system can also trigger it. Typical repair costs on Toyota range from $20 to $2,500, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of P0442
- •Loose, damaged, or missing fuel filler cap
- •Worn or cracked gas cap seal
- •Cracked or disconnected EVAP hose or line
- •Faulty purge valve or vent valve
- •Damaged O-ring or seal at the fuel tank or filler neck
- •Small crack in the charcoal canister
- •Leaking fuel tank sending unit gasket
P0442 on Toyota by Model
Toyota Camry(1 issue)
- EVAP Charcoal Canister / Vent Valve Failure Triggering Check Engine Light2002-2011
A common Camry problem is EVAP system failure caused by a saturated charcoal canister, sticking vent valve, or related vacuum switching valve faults. Owners usually first notice a check engine light, often after repeated topping off of the fuel tank or exposure to road debris/moisture. The issue is well documented across 2002-2011 cars and can prevent emissions inspection compliance.
Toyota Corolla(1 issue)
- EVAP Charcoal Canister and Vent Valve Failure Causing Check Engine Light2000-2008
Corollas in the 9th-generation range commonly develop EVAP system faults from a failing charcoal canister, stuck vent valve, or related vacuum switching valve problems. Owners typically report a persistent check engine light with no major drivability issue, but the vehicle fails emissions inspection and may be difficult to refuel if the vent path is restricted. Toyota service literature and repair databases frequently reference canister-related EVAP diagnosis on these years.
Toyota FJ Cruiser(1 issue)
- A/C Compressor and Evaporator Failure2007-2014
The FJ Cruiser's A/C system is prone to compressor clutch failure and evaporator core leaks. The evaporator is located behind the dashboard, making replacement extremely labor-intensive. The A/C system struggles in hot climates, especially when off-roading at low speeds.
Toyota RAV4(1 issue)
- EVAP Charcoal Canister / Vent Valve Failure Triggering Check Engine Light and Refueling Vapor Issues2001-2012
RAV4 owners across multiple model years report EVAP system faults caused by a saturated or failed charcoal canister, sticking vent valve, or related vacuum switching valves. This commonly turns on the check engine light and can also cause difficulty refueling, fuel odor, or repeated emissions-test failures. The issue is well documented in repair databases and owner reports, especially in vehicles exposed to dust, overfilling, or age-related deterioration.
Toyota Tacoma(2 issues)
- A/C Musty/Mold Smell2016-2023
The A/C system can develop a musty or moldy smell when first turned on. This is caused by moisture accumulation and mold/bacteria growth on the evaporator. Common in humid climates and vehicles that use A/C infrequently.
- Evaporative Emissions Leak Faults from Charcoal Canister, Vent Valve, or Filler Neck Corrosion2000-2015
Tacomas in this era commonly develop EVAP system leak faults that trigger a check engine light, often caused by a failing charcoal canister, stuck vent valve, cracked hoses, or a rusted filler neck in salt-belt trucks. Owners usually notice no drivability problem, but the truck will not pass emissions and the light often returns after a gas cap replacement. The pattern is well documented in NHTSA complaints, forum troubleshooting threads, and repair databases.
Looking for P0442 on a different make?
View P0442 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0442 mean on Toyota?▼
P0442 stands for "Evaporative Emission Control System Leak Detected (Small Leak)." This emissions code means the evaporative emission (EVAP) control system has detected a small leak. The EVAP system seals the fuel tank and captures gasoline vapors, routing them to be burned in the engine instead of escaping into the air, and the computer periodically pressure- or vacuum-tests the system to confirm it's sealed. A small leak the size of about a 0.040-inch hole will set this code. By far the most common and cheapest cause is a loose, damaged, or missing gas cap, so that's the first thing to check, though any cracked hose or worn seal in the system can also trigger it. On Toyota specifically, this code is documented across 5 models.
What causes P0442 on Toyota vehicles?▼
Common causes on Toyota: Loose, damaged, or missing fuel filler cap, Worn or cracked gas cap seal, Cracked or disconnected EVAP hose or line, Faulty purge valve or vent valve, Damaged O-ring or seal at the fuel tank or filler neck. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P0442 on a Toyota?▼
Repair costs on Toyota range from $20 to $2,500, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Toyota models have P0442 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0442 on 5 Toyota models: Camry, Corolla, FJ Cruiser, RAV4, Tacoma.