Error p0440 - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums

core2kid · 06-18-2010, 04:24 PM

I had an error p0440 along with the check engine light. I was told the gas cap was the problem by Toyota and that it's the easiest to fix. I replaced that and I'm still getting the light. I drove it for about 20 mins after replacing it. Do I need to reset the computer or will it clear the code itself?

***TrailDust*** · 06-18-2010, 04:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by core2kid

I had an error p0440 along with the check engine light. I was told the gas cap was the problem by Toyota and that it's the easiest to fix. I replaced that and I'm still getting the light. I drove it for about 20 mins after replacing it. Do I need to reset the computer or will it clear the code itself?

I'd say you still have some troubleshooting to do because that code for an EVAP malfunction could also relate to fuel lines, the purge valve, your carbon canister, hoses, etc. Do you have access to a FSM?

BTW,

to Toyota Nation!

core2kid · 06-18-2010, 04:57 PM

First off, thanks. This site has helped me a lot with high idling problems (unplugging the battery for a couple hours fixed problem) and wiring up fog lights.

I don't know what an FSM is but I wanted to reset the computer and see if the error shows back up after the new gas cap. Should the error go away instantly if the gas cap was the problem?

***TrailDust*** · 06-18-2010, 06:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by core2kid

First off, thanks. This site has helped me a lot with high idling problems (unplugging the battery for a couple hours fixed problem) and wiring up fog lights.

I don't know what an FSM is but I wanted to reset the computer and see if the error shows back up after the new gas cap. Should the error go away instantly if the gas cap was the problem?

FSM is short for the factory service manual, whether it's published by Toyota, Haynes, or Chilton. If you plan on doing regular repair or maintenance on your Camry you ought to buy one for your model year. Ebay would be the best place to look for a manual that's decently priced.

core2kid · 06-18-2010, 11:36 PM

I have a service manual for my car that I downloaded a while back.

My basic question is, if the gas cap WAS the problem, would the check engine light go off immediately after replacing it, after a couple days or would I need to reset the computer myself?

***TrailDust*** · 06-18-2010, 11:42 PM

Reset the check light yourself. If it comes back on, then look at some of the other possible causes mentioned above and/or in your FSM.

core2kid · 06-19-2010, 12:40 AM

Can I unplug the battery for a couple hours to reset the computer? Is there an easier way to do it?

***TrailDust*** · 06-19-2010, 12:58 AM

Unplugging the battery for recent models is not recommended. I'd suggest a Google search which should turn up the best way to reset your model year Camry. I used to have a link for that. Let me see if I can find it....

Edit: I couldn't find that bookmark, but a quick Google search did turn up this relevant link.

core2kid · 06-19-2010, 09:45 AM

Thanks for the link. I think I'll go and just unplug the battery for a couple hours. I had done that back when I installed fog lights and the only problem I had was a low idle which fixed itself after driving around the neighborhood a couple times. My audio system, alarm etc all work fine.

That OBDII tool works on all cars 1996 and later?

RickF · 06-19-2010, 09:58 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by core2kid

My basic question is, if the gas cap WAS the problem, would the check engine light go off immediately after replacing it, after a couple days or would I need to reset the computer myself?

It's always been my understanding that when you get a 'check-engine' light due to a loose gas cap, that it can't be reset (unless you take it into the dealer). You just have to drive it for a week or so. At least that's what the dealer told me when my wife forgot to tighten the gas cap on her Camry ('05 Camry) and again two other times when my Mother-in-law forgot to tighten ('06 Camry). After driving about 1 week the CEL goes away if that was in fact the cause.

Quote:

P0440 OBD-II Trouble Code

Evaporative Emission Control System Malfunction: What does that mean?

This indicates that a part of the EVAP control system is no longer functioning correctly. The EVAP system consists of many parts, including (but not limited to) the gas cap, fuel lines, carbon canister, purge valve, and other hoses. The (EVAP) emission control system prevents the escape of fuel vapors from a vehicle's fuel system. Fuel vapors are routed by hoses to a charcoal canister for storage. Later, when the engine is running a purge control valve opens allowing intake vacuum to siphon the fuel vapors into the engine.

The gas cap is the usual culprit if you recently filled the tank and maybe didn't get it tight enough (needs to click a few times).

Hope this helps.

core2kid · 06-19-2010, 10:14 AM

In NJ, you are not allowed to fill your own gas (quite stupid). We rely on some senile person to fill the gas and close the gas cap.

I hope when I bought the new gas cap, I didn't waste $20. Under the hood, I checked all the hoses from the air filter and they looked tight and solid. I'll drive it around for a while and see if the light goes away. I really wanted to know quicker but I guess I can hold off.

If it was the gas cap problem, does anybody need a gas cap from an 02 Camry for $12 shipped?

***judge34411*** · 06-19-2010, 02:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by core2kid

In NJ, you are not allowed to fill your own gas (quite stupid). We rely on some senile person to fill the gas and close the gas cap.

I hope when I bought the new gas cap, I didn't waste $20. Under the hood, I checked all the hoses from the air filter and they looked tight and solid. I'll drive it around for a while and see if the light goes away. I really wanted to know quicker but I guess I can hold off.

If it was the gas cap problem, does anybody need a gas cap from an 02 Camry for $12 shipped?

Your local garage that you fill up at, if they have a service dept. will prob hook up the OBD and reset for free.

core2kid · 06-19-2010, 02:49 PM

I tried going to the local garage. They said that they will charge to check the error code but won't reset it because if something happens to me or the car they are liable. I guess I'm driving about 200 miles and seeing if it resets itself.

core2kid · 06-22-2010, 09:13 PM

I've driven the car for 50-100 miles after the new gas cap. I still have the check engine light. I guess it's time to head over to a mechanic?

Should I go Toyota (they've done all my services so far except body work from an accident and flex pipe replacement)

***TrailDust*** · 06-22-2010, 09:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by core2kid

I've driven the car for 50-100 miles after the new gas cap. I still have the check engine light. I guess it's time to head over to a mechanic?

Should I go Toyota (they've done all my services so far except body work from an accident and flex pipe replacement)

If you have confidence in them to do the job correctly. Personally, there's nothing better in this world than a highly recommended private mechanic.