P0443
Fix within 1-2 weeksThe engine computer detected an electrical problem in the circuit that controls the Evaporative Emission Control System (EVAP) purge valve.
Code P0443 means your engine computer detected an electrical fault in the EVAP purge valve circuit. Common causes: Faulty purge valve (75%), wiring issues (20%). Drivability: Yes, safe to drive. Repair cost: $30-$150 DIY, $100-$300 professional.
Can I Drive With P0443?
Yes, safe to drive
No restrictions
Stop driving immediately if: No need to stop driving unless other, more severe symptoms develop.
Symptoms of P0443
- 1Check Engine Light is on
- 2No noticeable driving symptoms
- 3Slight decrease in fuel economy
Common Causes of P0443
Parts most likely causing this code, ranked by probability
The purge valve itself has an internal electrical fault, preventing the engine computer from controlling it correctly.
75% of P0443 cases are fixed by replacing this part
Damaged, corroded, or loose wiring or connector to the purge valve can cause an open or short circuit.
20% of P0443 cases are fixed by repairing the wiring
A rare internal fault within the engine computer's driver circuit for the purge valve can trigger this code.
5% of P0443 cases are fixed by replacing the PCM
Check These First (Before Buying Parts)
- Visually inspect the electrical connector at the EVAP purge valve for corrosion, bent pins, or loose connections.
- Check the wiring harness leading to the purge valve for any signs of chafing, cuts, or damage.
How to Diagnose P0443
- 1Visually inspect the EVAP purge valve and its electrical connector for any obvious damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
- 2Using a multimeter, check the resistance of the purge valve solenoid across its terminals. Compare to factory specifications (usually 10-30 ohms).
- 3With the ignition on, check for voltage at the purge valve connector. One wire should have battery voltage.
- 4Check the ground circuit at the purge valve connector. The engine computer controls the ground to activate the valve.
- 5If possible, use a scan tool to command the purge valve on and off while monitoring the circuit status and listening for the valve to click.
P0443 on Popular Vehicles
Honda Civic
2006-2024Honda Civic models are prone to EVAP purge valve failures, often leading to P0443. The valve is usually accessible on the intake manifold.
80% fixed by replacing the purge valve
Toyota Camry
2007-2024Toyota Camry vehicles can also experience P0443 due to a faulty purge valve. Inspect the wiring carefully, as some models have known issues with harness chafing.
70% fixed by replacing the purge valve
Ford F-150
2004-2024Ford F-150 trucks commonly set P0443 due to a failed EVAP purge valve. The valve is typically located on the intake manifold or near the engine firewall.
75% fixed by replacing the purge valve
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0443 mean?
P0443 indicates that the vehicle's engine computer has detected an electrical malfunction within the circuit that controls the EVAP purge valve. This valve manages fuel vapor flow from the charcoal canister to the engine.
Can I drive with P0443?
Yes, you can drive safely with a P0443 code. This code points to an emissions system electrical fault, not a critical engine or safety issue. However, it will cause your vehicle to fail emissions tests and can lead to a slight decrease in fuel economy.
Will P0443 clear itself?
No, P0443 will not clear itself. The Check Engine Light will remain on until the electrical fault in the purge valve circuit is diagnosed and repaired. Once fixed, you may need to drive several cycles or manually clear the code with a scan tool.
How do I fix P0443 myself?
To fix P0443 yourself, start by inspecting the purge valve's electrical connector and wiring for damage. If they look good, test the purge valve's resistance with a multimeter. If the resistance is out of specification, replace the EVAP purge valve. This is often a straightforward bolt-on replacement.
How much does it cost to fix P0443?
The cost to fix P0443 ranges from $30-$150 for DIY, primarily for the part. Professionally, expect to pay $100-$300, which includes the part and 0.5 to 1.5 hours of labor.
P0443 keeps coming back - why?
If P0443 keeps coming back, it means the underlying electrical fault was not fully resolved. This often happens if you replaced the purge valve but the problem was actually in the wiring harness, a corroded connector, or, in rare cases, the engine computer itself.
Will P0443 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0443 will cause your vehicle to fail an emissions or smog test. An active Check Engine Light due to an EVAP system fault means the emissions system is not functioning as designed, which is an automatic failure in most jurisdictions.
What's the difference between P0443 and P0440?
P0443 specifically indicates an electrical circuit malfunction with the EVAP purge valve. P0440 is a more general code for an EVAP system malfunction, meaning a leak or issue was detected but doesn't pinpoint a specific component like the purge valve's electrical circuit.
P0443 on Honda Civic
On Honda Civic models, P0443 is a common code, frequently caused by a faulty EVAP purge control solenoid valve. The valve is typically located on the intake manifold and is a relatively simple replacement. Always check the electrical connector and wiring first, as corrosion can also be an issue.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you test the resistance of the purge valve solenoid?
Good answer: Yes, I measured X ohms, and the specification is Y-Z ohms. It's out of spec, indicating an internal fault.
Have you checked for voltage and ground at the purge valve connector?
Good answer: Yes, I confirmed battery voltage on one wire and a good ground signal from the PCM when commanded on.
Repair Cost Estimate
DIY Repair
Parts only
$30-$150
Shop Repair
Parts + labor
$100-$300
Save $70-$150 by doing it yourself
Difficulty
beginner
Time
0.5-1.5 hours
Beginner-friendly - replacing the purge valve is often a simple bolt-on job, and basic electrical checks are manageable with a multimeter.
Cost of Waiting
Ignoring P0443 means your vehicle will fail emissions inspections. While it won't cause immediate damage, it can lead to minor fuel economy loss. A simple purge valve replacement now prevents repeated emissions test failures and ensures your EVAP system functions correctly.
While You're In There...
If the purge valve is being replaced, inspect nearby EVAP hoses for cracks or brittleness, as they can degrade over time and cause future EVAP leaks.
Tools You'll Need
- Basic hand tools (sockets, wrenches)
- Multimeter
- Wire stripper/crimper (if wiring repair is needed)
P0443 is a common emissions code that usually points to a straightforward electrical issue with the purge valve. Most repairs are under $150 DIY and will get your vehicle ready for emissions testing.
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Your Next Steps
Step 1: Visually inspect the EVAP purge valve's electrical connector and wiring for any damage or corrosion. Ensure the connector is securely seated.
Step 2: If the visual inspection doesn't reveal the issue, use a multimeter to test the resistance of the purge valve solenoid. Compare your reading to the vehicle's service manual specifications.
Step 3: If the purge valve tests faulty, replace it. If the valve tests good, you will need to further diagnose the wiring for an open or short circuit, or consider a rare PCM issue.