Sunfire Error Code Help...

[ranedrops]

My 98 sunfire's check engine light is on. After having it checked, the following code came up P0440 - Evaporative Emission Control System Malfunction. Anyone know what this code means and what do I need to fix it.
Thanks!

[GTP Dad]

Make sure your gas cap is on tight. This is a common problem and if the gas cap was left loose you will get this code. Other than that you may have a leaking hose going to the charcoal canister that I believe is located over the rear axle on a sunfire. There is also a vacuum solenoid that goes bad from time to time that can cause this problem. Check the gas cap first and if it is tight check the hoses leading to the canister.

[ranedrops]

Could this also be causing the hesitation/kicking I get from time to time?
Somedays the hesitation is much worse than others. It feels as if the gas is not being taken up or there is not enough air through. If you let off the gas it immediately stops or if you floor it it picks it up.
Thanks for your help.

[GTP Dad]

It is doubtful that this will cause the hesitation although anything is possible. I would check plugs and wires before anything else. Also clean the throttle body and the mass airflow sensor. Use electronics cleaner on the MAF and check the fuel pressure at the fuel pressure regulator. All of the above can cause the hesitation. Finally are you sure that the code you mentioned is the only code in the computer?

[ranedrops]

Yes, that is the only code that came up. I have been having problems with my car for quite sometime. The check engine light goes on and off. The car hestitates when you hit the gas and is prone to bucking or bogging down, sometimes slightly othertimes quite hard as if it feels like the engine is going to fall out. It does this with the check engine light on or off. If it is in one of it's "fits" and I let off the gas it immediately stops, or if I floor the gas it will come out of it.
I have had the oil and oil filter changed, ignition wires, plugs and fuel filter changed as well as the 1 & 4 coil. I have also replaced the alternator and water pump in the last year.

Could this be a faulty fuel pump or sensors?
Any help would be great.
Thanks!

[GTP Dad]

A faulty fuel pump could indeed cause the car to buck and hesitate when you are accelerating. I would replace the fuel pump relay first as it may be sticking and not maintaining the fuel pressure at optimum level. A lot cheaper than a fuel pump.