Check engine light on

[Seaeric]

I have a 1997 2WD Explorer with the 4L V6 SOHC, 87,000 miles. So I went to Auto Zone and had them read the code. I don't have the print out in front of me but the code was like 445 or similar, which is massive air/vacuum leak in the fuel system. First problem was suggested was what I already thought which was that the gas cap had not been on tight. There was a few other possible causes on the print out like vacuum line disconnected etc. but fuel cap is the one I suspected anyway. The kid at AZ said it was against the rules for him to clear the code for me, that I had to take it to a shop and get it checked out. I'm away from home and in unfamiliar territory so I figured perhaps the easiest alternative was the Ford dealer. They tell that their computer said it had some sort of bad valve in the emissions system. $150. part (which is not in stock they have to get it) and 3 hours labor. To me, (an obvious mechanical neophyte) the AZ code diagnosis and the Ford Dealer proposed repair sound WAY different. Am I having a logic attack, or am I getting screwed by the dealer?

 

[aldive]

Without providing us the exact code(s), a reliable diagnosis will not be possible, sorry.

 

[nssj2]

does a canister purge/vent solenoid sound right? that would be something that trips the light, and is the only "valve" associated with that code. that said, autozone doesnt have that part available, so stealership is an option, but its something that you can do, or a local shop can do. its strictly emissions related. search around on here, i think there might be a write up, just so you can get an idea of whats going on. good luck!

 

[Seaeric]

Without providing us the exact code(s), a reliable diagnosis will not be possible, sorry.

Sure, makes sense to me. The print out with the code is in the vehicle, now in the dealer's shop. By the time I have it, the $$ damage will be done. I'll post a follow up when I see the print out along with the actual RO from the dealer. Thanks for the responses!

 

[Seaeric]

The code is PO455.

Auto Zone said the probable causes are: Loose or missing fuel cap, EVAP canister broke or hose cracked or not connected, purge or vent solenoid defective, or vacuum leak at engine.

The Ford dealer replaced the Vapor Management Valve. Part $65.03 and Labor $299.35 and also reprogrammed the PCM for $94.95

Does this repair make sense in relation to the code and suggested probable causes?

 

[btexpress]

The code is PO455.

Auto Zone said the probable causes are: Loose or missing fuel cap, EVAP canister broke or hose cracked or not connected, purge or vent solenoid defective, or vacuum leak at engine.

The Ford dealer replaced the Vapor Management Valve. Part $65.03 and Labor $299.35 and also reprogrammed the PCM for $94.95

Does this repair make sense in relation to the code and suggested probable causes?

The labor seems a bit high to me, but this VMV is buried somewhere under the battery and is not real easy to access unless you have done a few.
There must have been an update or TSB for the programming. EVAP codes are the worst to diagnose, and I sure wouldn't rely on some kid at AZ to know WTF is up when it comes to codes and how to fix them.

 

[JoeMahma]

The code is PO455.

Auto Zone said the probable causes are: Loose or missing fuel cap, EVAP canister broke or hose cracked or not connected, purge or vent solenoid defective, or vacuum leak at engine.

The Ford dealer replaced the Vapor Management Valve. Part $65.03 and Labor $299.35 and also reprogrammed the PCM for $94.95

Does this repair make sense in relation to the code and suggested probable causes?

PO455 is a massive leak in the evap system. It very well could be as simple as the gas cap.

 

[ThePhoenix]

why did they need to reprogram the PCM?

 

[Seaeric]

why did they need to reprogram the PCM?

Dealer said it would make the car run better by bringing the settings up to 2007 standards. Beats me. The car ran just fine as it was...check engine light on even. It was a slow day in the shop, they needed some work and some revenue. There is no profit in replacing a gas cap!