Evaporative Emissions Control System Pressure Sensor

Evaporative Emissions Control System Pressure Sensor High Input

What does that mean?

This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is a generic powertrain code, which means that is applies to OBD-II equipped vehicles. Although generic, the specific repair steps may vary depending on make/model.

The EVAP (Evaporative Emissions) System allows fuel tank vapors to be purged into the engine and burnt rather than expelled into the atmosphere as harmful emissions. The EVAP system contains a pressure sensor to check the integrity of the system.

Periodically, the EVAP system performs a pressure test to check that there are no leaks in the system. It uses this sensor, also known as a fuel tank pressure (FTP) sensor to check for leaks. Basically P0453 means the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) noticed the EVAP Pressure sensor or FTP is indicating a higher than normal pressure (above 4.5 Volts) in the EVAP system. NOTE: On some vehicles the FTP is a part of the fuel pump assembly in the tank.

Related evaporative emission trouble codes include P0450, P0451, P0452, P0454, P0455, P0456, P0457, P0458, and P0459.

Potential Symptoms

There will likely be no noticeable symptoms along with this code other than the MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp), commonly known as Check Engine Light illumination. However, there may be noticeable fuel odors in some cases.

Causes

A P0453 DTC trouble code may be caused by one or more of the following:

• Bad FTP sensor
• Abnormally high pressure in fuel tank due to blockage in EVAP purge hoses or overfilled tank
• Loss of ground to the sensor

Possible Solutions

Using an scan tool access FTP sensor value with Key on Engine off (KOEO). Normal value is usually somewhere near 2.5 Volts at atmospheric pressure (may fluctuate some due to altitude). It shouldn't ever be above 4.5 Volts.

1) If it is close to 2.7V with the gas cap off, the problem is likely intermittent. Using a Digital Volt Ohm Meter, measure the voltage on the signal wire while trying to induce the problem by wiggle testing all the wiring at the FTP sensor. If the voltage fluctuates when wiggle testing, check for connector problems; i.e. water in the connector, broken or chafed wiring.

2) If the value shown on the scan tool is above 4.5V, unplug the sensor (if possible) and check for voltage again. If the high voltage is still present when unplugged, inspect wiring harness for a short to voltage on the signal wire. If the high voltage disappears when unplugging the sensor, check for a good ground to the sensor and proper reference voltage. If you have a good ground and 5 Volts reference voltage, replace the FTP sensor since it's likely shorted out.

Other EVAP DTCs: P0440 - P0441 - P0442 - P0443 - P0444 - P0445 - P0446 - P0447 - P0448 - P0449 - P0452 - P0455 - P0456

Related P0453 DTC Discussions

• About a year ago I replaced the fuel tank, and was able to get the truck inspected, and things worked ok till about a month ago. Got a check engine code p0455 serious leak detected. I pressurized the tank and went over all the hoses and fittings and sure enough the fuel tank pressure sensor was cra...
  
• I am facing the error P0453 on my 2010 toyota tundra...
  
• I have 2000 Lincoln Town Car with code P0453 . I have replaced gas cap and cleaned fuel fill neck. Do I need to replace fuel tank pressure sensor...
  
• I have a 2004 Chevy Silverado 4.3 with 2 codes set.The codes are po446 and po453 I have changed the fuel tank pressure sensor and the evaporative vent control I still am showing the same codes.HELP!!! i can not pass state inspection with these codes showing up.
  
• i have a 2000 mustang 3.8 check engine light came on gives me the code PO453 wondering where is the(ftp) fuel tank pressure sensor located...
  

Need more help with a p0453 code?

NOTE: This information is presented for information purposes only. It is not intended as repair advice and we are not responsible for any actions you take on any vehicle. All information on this site is copyright protected. If you want to share this article or information with others, please link to this page, don't copy and paste it elsewhere.