bad gas cap

[cgrawitch]

I have a 97 ex and the check engine light stays on most of the time. I have had the code checked and it indicates a bad gas cap. I have installed 3 new ones and the last one from a Ford Dealer. Can anyone help?

 

[Cobraguy]

What the code is PROBABLY telling you is you have a leak in the evap emissions system. That CAN be the gas cap...but can be a leak in any of the lines, fuel tank filler hose, etc. You can do an inspection to see if you can find it. But if you can't, you might want to take it to a dealer or shop who can properly diagnose it.

 

[texyank]

I replaced my cap and it solved the problem for a little while. After about a month the cel kept coming on for a couple days and then would go off. It turns out that the aftermarket cap was working its way loose. I just got into the habit of checking the cap every day. Its usually loose about every third day or so. It would probably be easier just to replace it but I never get around to it.

 

[Fabbed4d88]

I had the same problem with mine...ended up being the EGR vacume solenoid. it was an $18 fix but I found that out the hard way. Ended up replacing the EGR valve and the EGR pressure feedback sensor first, both are between $60-$80. Try replacing the solenoid.


And yes, I did replace the gas cap first.

 

[Opera House]

The Evap solenoid near the tank is at a location that gets a lot of water. The case rusts and locks up the valve. Follow the little hoses to it. If it is rusty it is probably bad. That was the problem with my 97, about $40 from dealer.