cel code po442

[JAA9579]

I have a 2000 saturn sl2 with 90k. Unfortunately I was called for ct emissions, the cel is currently on. The code I pulled was po442 small evap leak detected. Can anyone offer any advice as to what to check on the evap system, i have already replaced the gas cap with no luck. The car seems to be reaching operating temp according to the temp gauge therefore ruling out thermostat ? Is the evap purge canister/and or solenoid under the hood or at the rear axle like other GM models. If so are there any lines that may be more suspect or failure prone than others ? In the past I went through this with a ford truck and because of the complexity of these evap systems was able to purchase a whole dealer fix kit made by ford complete with all vacuum lines , solenoids, etc. Any help or knowledge would be greatly appreciated. thank you..Joe

[RC1488]

Replace your Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor first. This sensor is used for on board emission testing.

The purge solenoid is on the rear of the engine.

The evaporation canister is in the front right fender

[RC1488]

Replace your Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor first. This sensor is used for on board emission testing.

The purge solenoid is on the rear of the engine.

The evaporation canister is in the front right fender

[JAA9579]

could it be possible that the pcm thinks the engine is too cold therefore affecting the cycling/purging cycles of the evap system, even though the temp gauge is indicating normal temp? I will replace the coolant temp sensor first because it seems to be the most logical place to start and seems to very trouble prone on these engines. Thanks again, its from help like you guys that makes auto repair possible on modern vehicles..joe

[RC1488]

Yupp! A bad ECTS can mess many subsystems up. Normal operating temps should be 3/8 read from the gauge.

[Ruley73]

I would first check your air filter then check all the vacuum lines. I would also remove the MAP sensor from the throttlebody and make sure it's not gunked up. The MAP sensor has a 3 terminal plug going to it and it is simply clipped on the throttlebody.

The ECTS usually causes much more adverse, erradic engine behavior if it is in fact bad. I would check to see if yours has a brass tip. If it does it has been replaced already and should be fine. However, if not go ahead and do some preventative maintenance save yourself some grief by spending $15 and replacing it with a brass tipped sensor.