P0445
Fix within 1-2 weeksAn electrical short circuit has been detected in the Evaporative Emission Control System (EVAP) purge valve circuit.
Code P0445 means your EVAP purge valve circuit has an electrical short. Common causes: Faulty purge valve (70%), wiring damage (25%). Drivability: Yes, safe to drive. Repair cost: $50-$150 DIY, $150-$500 professional.
Can I Drive With P0445?
Yes, safe to drive
No restrictions
Stop driving immediately if: Significant fuel smell, or any other new driving symptoms.
Symptoms of P0445
- 1Check Engine Light is on
- 2No noticeable driving symptoms
- 3Possible slight fuel odor near the engine or gas tank
- 4Failed emissions test
Common Causes of P0445
Parts most likely causing this code, ranked by probability
The purge valve's internal coil can short out, causing the PCM to detect an electrical fault in the circuit.
70% of P0445 cases are fixed by replacing the EVAP purge valve
Damaged, chafed, or corroded wiring can create an unintended electrical path, triggering the short circuit code.
25% of P0445 cases are fixed by repairing or replacing the wiring harness
While rare, a faulty PCM driver for the purge valve circuit can cause this code.
5% of P0445 cases are fixed by replacing or repairing the PCM
Check These First (Before Buying Parts)
- Visually inspect the EVAP purge valve and its electrical connector for any obvious damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
- Check the gas cap to ensure it's tight and not damaged (though less likely for a circuit short code).
How to Diagnose P0445
- 1Visually inspect the EVAP purge valve and its electrical connector and wiring for any obvious damage, corrosion, or signs of chafing.
- 2Disconnect the purge valve and check the resistance across its terminals using a multimeter. Compare to factory specifications (usually 10-30 ohms). An open circuit or very low resistance indicates an internal short.
- 3Check for power and ground at the purge valve connector with the ignition on.
- 4If the wiring and valve test good, use a scan tool to command the purge valve open and closed while monitoring its circuit status.
- 5Check relevant fuses in the underhood and interior fuse boxes.
P0445 on Popular Vehicles
Honda Accord
2003-2012Honda Accord models from these years frequently experience EVAP system issues, and the purge valve is a common failure point for P0445.
75% fixed by EVAP purge valve
Toyota Camry
2007-2017Toyota Camry models in this range can also trigger P0445 due to a failed EVAP purge valve, sometimes accompanied by a P0441.
70% fixed by EVAP purge valve
Ford F-150
2004-2014Ford F-150s from these years are known for various EVAP system problems, and P0445 often points to a shorted purge valve or damaged wiring near the valve.
65% fixed by EVAP purge valve, 30% by wiring repair
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0445 mean?
P0445 indicates an electrical short circuit in the Evaporative Emission Control System (EVAP) purge valve. This valve manages fuel vapor flow from your gas tank to the engine.
Can I drive with P0445?
Yes, you can drive safely with P0445. The code does not directly affect engine performance or safety, but it will cause your vehicle to fail an emissions test.
Will P0445 clear itself?
No, P0445 will not clear itself. The underlying electrical short needs to be diagnosed and repaired before the code will clear.
How do I fix P0445 myself?
Start by visually inspecting the purge valve wiring for damage. If no damage is found, test the purge valve's resistance with a multimeter. If it's shorted, replace the EVAP purge valve.
How much does it cost to fix P0445?
DIY costs are $50-$150 for a new purge valve. Professional repair costs range from $150-$500, including parts and labor.
P0445 keeps coming back - why?
If P0445 returns after replacing the purge valve, the issue is likely in the wiring harness (a persistent short) or, less commonly, a fault in the PCM.
Will P0445 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0445 will cause your vehicle to fail an emissions or smog test because it indicates a fault in the evaporative emissions system.
What's the difference between P0445 and P0443?
P0445 specifically indicates a short circuit in the purge valve's electrical circuit, while P0443 indicates a general circuit malfunction which could be an open, short, or range/performance issue.
P0445 on Honda Civic?
P0445 on a Honda Civic often points directly to a faulty EVAP purge valve (also called a canister purge valve). These are common failure points on many Honda models.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you test the resistance of the EVAP purge valve, and what were the readings?
Good answer: Yes, I disconnected the valve and measured X ohms. It was outside the specified range, indicating an an internal short. I also checked the wiring for continuity and shorts, and it tested good.
Repair Cost Estimate
DIY Repair
Parts only
$50-$150
Shop Repair
Parts + labor
$150-$500
Save $100-$350 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. Electrical diagnosis requires a multimeter but is still manageable for a beginner.
Cost of Waiting
Ignoring P0445 will cause your vehicle to fail emissions inspections. While it won't damage your engine, it means your vehicle is releasing more harmful fuel vapors into the atmosphere and may experience a slight decrease in fuel economy.
While You're In There...
If the purge valve is being replaced, inspect nearby EVAP hoses for cracks or brittleness. Replacing them at the same time prevents future leaks and repeat labor.
Tools You'll Need
- Basic hand tools (sockets, wrenches)
- Multimeter
- Wire strippers/crimpers (if wiring repair is needed)
- Scan tool (optional, for commanding valve and clearing code)
P0445 is a common EVAP system code. It's usually a straightforward electrical issue with the purge valve itself, and the repair is typically inexpensive and easy to do.
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Your Next Steps
Step 1: Visually inspect the EVAP purge valve and its wiring harness for any signs of damage, chafing, or corrosion. Ensure the connector is securely attached.
Step 2: If the visual inspection doesn't reveal any issues, disconnect the purge valve and use a multimeter to test its internal resistance. Compare the reading to your vehicle's service manual specifications.
Step 3: If the purge valve tests faulty (shorted or open), replace it. If the valve tests good, then the issue is likely in the wiring harness or, rarely, the PCM.