engine code/ fuel system evaporation leak

need help with an engine code, and figured someone here would know. service engine light came back on. had it scanned and it turned up fuel evaporation leak. po442 i think was what the computer said.i couldnt find anything by sight. i cant put it up on a lift, so its tough to find where the leak is (if it is a leak). has anyone had this problem. what should i check for. thanks for the help. this engine light is getting annoying, and if a real problem comes up i wont know about it

i did some searching on af, and saw other posts about this. gmmerlin had a great post, but i still need a follow up. can anyone go into some specifics or link me somewhere about testing evap leaks? or is this beyond me and needs to be taken to a shop? im afraid to even ask what that "EVAP system testing with specialized equipment to verify that there are no leaks present." im scared!!

What year, model and engine size? How many miles?

Sounds like you missed the part he mentioned on a P0442 DTC:


P0442 – This is a Small leak indication.
This is a TYPE A code. This indicates a leak as small as .020”.
This code needs some serious diagnosis and knowledge of the system to find and repair the leak. Usually specialized equipment will be used to identify the leak.

Unless you like guessing the best reference to use is the GM service manual, however, that may be limited without proper diagnostics equipment to include a GM Tech II scan tool.

2000 gtp supercharged 3800. 9x,000 miles
i read that part

i must have missed that part. can you send me a link? all i found was

"P0442 – This is a Small leak indication.
This is a TYPE A code. This indicates a leak as small as .020”.
This code needs some serious diagnosis and knowledge of the system to find and repair the leak. Usually specialized equipment will be used to identify the leak."

it seems i might as well just take it to a gm shop.

PO442 is a small evap leak.. Ive run into that twice with two GM cars.. Both times it was the gas cap.. Check the seal and if it is worn,dried or cracked then try replacing it, remove the code and see if it comes back.

Other small things is the filler neck clamps, and all the hoses and connections under the cars gas tank and emision controls surrounding it.

like GM Merlin and bnaylor said, it'll need a qualified Tech with the proper tools to diagnose the po442 if you cant locate it your self..

thanks for the help guys, i will see what i can find