P0496 on Chevrolet: How to Diagnose & Fix
Evaporative Emission System High Purge Flow
2 Chevrolet models · 2 documented issues · $60-$200 repair
P0496 on Chevrolet by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The vapor-canister purge solenoid on the V6 Equinox (and Terrain) commonly fails stuck-open, letting fuel vapor flow into the intake when it shouldn't. This sets DTC P0496 (EVAP flow during a non-purge condition) and sometimes P0455/P0446, illuminates the check-engine light, and can cause a rough/rich idle, hard starting, and even a faint fuel smell. It is one of the most frequently replaced emissions parts on the V6 Equinox because the valve is a known weak point and the repair is cheap and easy. The valve sits on top of the engine and is a roughly one-hour DIY job.
Common Symptoms
- Check-engine light with code P0496 (sometimes P0455/P0446)
- Rough or rich idle, occasional stumble
- Hard starting, especially right after refueling
- Faint raw-fuel smell
- Failed emissions/EVAP monitor readiness
How to Fix
Confirm P0496 and inspect the purge-valve vacuum lines for cracks and the connector for damage before replacing. Replace the vapor canister purge valve with the GM/ACDelco OE part 12690512 (supersedes 12610560). After replacement, clear codes and run a drive cycle to confirm the EVAP monitor passes and the light stays off. Also verify the gas cap and EVAP lines if leak codes (P0455/P0446) accompany the purge code.
Sources for this issue (1)
On the 3.6L V6 (RPO LFY) Traverse, the evaporative emissions purge valve can fail to fully close, allowing fuel vapor to flood the intake. This causes a P0496 (EVAP high purge flow) code with rough running, hesitation, or stalling at idle, and hard starting after refueling. GM acknowledged the condition and issued Special Coverage N232395300 (15 years / 150,000 miles) to replace the purge valve at no charge on affected 2019 Traverse units.
Common Symptoms
- Check engine light with P0496
- Rough idle or stalling at idle
- Hard starting after refueling
- Engine hesitation
How to Fix
Replace the failed evaporative emission purge/solenoid valve (free under GM Special Coverage N232395300 on eligible 2019 3.6L units); clear P0496 and verify EVAP system seal. Check for related EVAP codes (P0442, P0455) that can accompany the failure.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- EVAP canister purge solenoid valve (GM Genuine / ACDelco)OEM12737252Cross-refGM 12690512 (prior number, superseded by 12737252), Standard Motor Products CP612, Standard Motor Products CP612T$15–$36
This is the part GM's Special Coverage N232395300 bulletin (NHTSA MC-10238343) lists for the 3.6L LFY Traverse/Enclave: Purge Solenoid Valve 12690512. GM has since superseded 12690512 with 12737252 (GM Parts Giant product page states 'Re…
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Sources for this issue (1)
P0496 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0496 mean on a Chevrolet?
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. On Chevrolet it is documented across 2 models: Equinox, Traverse.
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 on a Chevrolet?
Published repair estimates on Chevrolet range from $60 to $200 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
Looking for P0496 on a different make?
View P0496 across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.