97 2.2L ODB Error code p0440

Okay folks...I have my 97 Cav, 2.2L with 156K miles. The check engine light has come on. I went to Checker and had the code read...P0440...emissions error. Normally, I remove/replace the gas cap and it clears in a few starts, but this time it is different. My question is this..what could be the most likely cause? I know there is an evaporative canister to check and a purge valve.

Any ideas would be greatly appreciated.


Thanks again.

check the gasket on the gas cap, make sure its good, check all the lines in and out of the canister for kinks, leaks or breaks, replace as necessary.... (the canister is on the right side of the vehicle, in front, right behind the fender) another thing to try is with the key on, and engine not running, check for voltage to the purge control solenoid and the pressure sensor, if there is no voltage, you'll probably have to take it to a dealer to check out, if there is voltage, reconnect the 2 and listen for a buzzing sound coming from the solenoid, if there is sound, you may try replacing the canister, if there is no sound, then again, you'll probably have to take it to a dealer to have it looked at, thats all the haynes manual tells me


im not so sure on the gas cap thing, ive heard people on these forums say that a loose or missing gas cap will cause a check engine light, im not saying thats wrong, but i havent had a gas cap in nearly 2 years and i havent seen my check engine light once

okay folks... i've had all I can stand with this car... i'm selling it...$1500..if you live in hawaii and want a great car to test your patience, drop me a note...As a matter of fact, I bought a 2007 Honda Accord V-6 yesterday...

Was anything else even wrong with it? Thats pretty hasty IMO. My P0440 code comes on and off every once and awhile, not sure why but it doesent bother me because it goes away so its probably just something tripping and not serious.

the only other issue is the A/C is busted. I have to replace the compressor and re-charge the system. so, i may have to put $300 into it to get $2k out of it.

Seems pretty reasonable...

My 01 Cav has at this moment the same code. Searched the web and found on MSN Autos reliability ratings that one the problems on this car is the failure of the Canister Purge Vent Solenoid Wiring Harness estimated to be $32.19. Has anybody fixed this problem by replacing the wire harness? By the way P0440 is the Evaporative Emission Control System Malfunction. I'll try jakegday's suggestion and hope it works.