P0496: Evaporative Emission System High Purge Flow
9 vehicles · 5 makes · $30-$650 repair
Most Reported On
P0496 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning “Evaporative Emission System High Purge Flow.” P0496 means the evaporative emission (EVAP) system detected high purge flow — fuel vapor is flowing into the engine when it shouldn't, typically because the purge valve is stuck or leaking open. The EVAP system captures fuel vapors in a charcoal canister and meters them into the intake through the purge valve at the correct times; unexpected vapor flow can create a vacuum in the tank and disturb fueling. Symptoms can include rough or stalling idle (especially after refueling), hard starting, or a fuel tank vacuum noise when the cap is removed. This code is most commonly reported on 2012-2018 Ford Focus, 2014-2021 Ford Transit Connect, and 2013-2021 MINI GP, plus 6 other vehicles, with repair costs ranging from $30 to $650.
Common Causes
Typical Repair Cost
Based on 9 documented vehicle-specific issues. Actual cost depends on root cause and vehicle.
Diagnostic Tools
To diagnose P0496, you'll need an OBD-II scanner. Here are our recommendations at every price point.
ANCEL AD310 Classic OBD-II Scanner
by ANCEL
A simple, affordable code reader that reads and clears check engine codes. Great for quick diagnostics on any OBD-II vehicle (1996+).
- Read & clear engine codes
- View freeze frame data
- I/M readiness status
- No batteries or app needed
BlueDriver Pro Bluetooth Scanner
by BlueDriver
Bluetooth OBD-II scanner with a free companion app. Provides enhanced diagnostics, smog readiness, and repair reports sourced from a database of verified fixes.
- Enhanced diagnostics (ABS, SRS, transmission)
- Repair Reports with verified fixes
- Smog check readiness
- Free app (iOS & Android)
LAUNCH CRP123X OBD-II Scanner
by LAUNCH
A professional-grade handheld scanner that reads all 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 diagnostic tablet with bi-directional control, active tests, and full system coverage. Ideal for serious DIYers and small shops.
- All-system diagnostics (25+ modules)
- Bi-directional control & active tests
- Oil reset, EPB, BMS, TPMS, injector coding
- 7-inch touchscreen with Android OS
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Vehicles Affected (9)
Canister Purge Valve Failure Causing Rough Idle and Stalling
EVAP Purge Valve Stuck Open (Hard Start After Refueling)
EVAP Canister Purge Valve Stuck Open — Hard Start After Refueling, Rough Idle, P0455/P0496
FAQ
What does P0496 mean?
P0496 stands for "Evaporative Emission System High Purge Flow." P0496 means the evaporative emission (EVAP) system detected high purge flow — fuel vapor is flowing into the engine when it shouldn't, typically because the purge valve is stuck or leaking open. The EVAP system captures fuel vapors in a charcoal canister and meters them into the intake through the purge valve at the correct times; unexpected vapor flow can create a vacuum in the tank and disturb fueling. Symptoms can include rough or stalling idle (especially after refueling), hard starting, or a fuel tank vacuum noise when the cap is removed.
What are the most common causes of P0496?
The most common causes of P0496 are: Stuck-open or leaking EVAP purge valve/solenoid, Faulty purge valve electrical control or wiring, Damaged or disconnected purge vacuum hose, Faulty vent valve allowing improper flow, Failed fuel tank pressure sensor, Cracked or pinched EVAP lines, Carbon canister saturation or failure. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0496?
Repair costs for P0496 range from $30 to $650, depending on the vehicle and root cause.
Which vehicles are affected by P0496?
Au7o has documented P0496 across 9 vehicle models from 5 manufacturers: Chevrolet, Ford, Honda, MINI, Saturn.
Sources (12)
- ForumReddit r/MechanicAdvice - 2014 Ford Focus Stalling and Rough Idle Due to Canister Purge Valve
- TSBFord TSB 19-2207 (NHTSA MC-10169807): 2013-2019 Escape/Focus/C-MAX/Transit Connect — MIL on with DTC P0496 and/or hard start after refueling; EVAP canister purge valve concern
- Forum3.6L Purge Solenoid replacement — GMC Terrain, Equinox, and SRX Forum
- manufacturerGM Genuine Parts 12690512 Vapor Canister Purge Valve — Chevrolet Parts
- articleP0455 on 2008-2012 Honda Accord V6: EVAP Large Leak Causes
- Forum'Check Fuel Cap' hiding bad EVAP purge valve - DriveAccord
- ForumP0496 high purge flow — Ford F150 Forum
- articleFixing EVAP Codes on Ford Expedition, Navigator & F-150 (2005-2019): A Vapor Canister Guide
- ForumCanister Purge Valve on 2015 XLT 3.5L Ecoboost — F150 Ecoboost Forum
- articleP0496 on 2016-2022 Honda Pilot: EVAP High Purge Flow Causes and Fixes - Go-Parts
- Forum1st had gas cap warning, now P0455. Which valve likely bad? | Honda Pilot - Piloteers Forums
- ForumSaturn Aura P0496 OBDII Code Diagnosis (Drivetrain Resource)
Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.