Got a P0447 code on your scanner? Learn about what this code means, its common symptoms and causes, as well as how best to approach a solution in this article.
What Does the P0447 Code Mean?
P0447 is a generic powertrain code that stands for “Evaporative Emission Control System Vent Valve/Solenoid Circuit Open.” It basically means that your PCM has detected a circuit problem. This can cause your EVAP system’s vent valve or solenoid to malfunction.
About the EVAP system, Canister, and Solenoid
Evaporative systems have been around since California began requiring EVAP systems on cars in 1970. The gas smell from your fuel tank (hydrocarbon vapors from evaporating gasoline) is captured and stored in a special canister filled with fibrous material. A small vapor line runs from the top of the fuel tank to the canister, which retains the hydrocarbon vapors until they are purged by engine vacuum through a special valve.
The canister has an open vent that allows atmosphere to flow through the canister as engine vacuum is applied to the canister’s purge port.
With the advent of OBD2, a solenoid was added to the vent port of the canister for the purpose of detecting leaks in the EVAP system. A fuel tank pressure sensor was also added. The ECM/PCM closes the canister vent solenoid and applies a weak vacuum using the EVAP purge solenoid, then closes the purge solenoid while holding the vent solenoid closed.
The fuel tank pressure sensor is monitored during this EVAP system test, and if the sensor indicates that the fuel tank pressure is rising with both solenoids closed, a code is stored indicating an EVAP leak. Then the vent solenoid is opened and the rise in pressure is measured. If the pressure doesn’t rise as quickly as expected, a different code is stored.
The EVAP vent valve solenoid circuit consists of a voltage feed from a relay and a ground trigger from the ECM/PCM. If the ground trigger isn’t applied to the solenoid, the ECM/PCM expects to “see” the 12 volts coming through the solenoid back to the ECM/PCM. If that 12 volts is absent, the ECM/PCM sets the P0447 code.
Note: The definition of code P0447 may be different depending on the vehicle manufacturer. Consult the appropriate repair manual or repair database for the exact code definition.
What are the Common Causes of the P0447 Code?
Various EVAP system issues can cause a P0447 code. Here is a list of the most common causes of a code P0447:
- Faulty or failing EVAP vent valve
- Vacuum leak in the EVAP lines
- Wiring or circuit problems
What are the Common Symptoms of the P0447 Code?
Here is the most common symptom linked to a P0447 code:
How to Diagnose the P0447 Code
OBD codes, including P0447, can be too difficult to diagnose at home. It’s best to consult a mechanic if a P0447 pops up after using a scan tool. If you’re feeling curious about this OBD code, you can get a good idea of how to diagnose it by checking online sources. You can watch these videos to learn more about a P0447 code:
How to Fix a P0447 Code
It takes technical skill and experience to efficiently diagnose and troubleshoot a P0447 code. Mechanics go through extensive training to fix your vehicle’s issues that trigger OBD codes. If you want to resolve your ride’s problems immediately, ask a mechanic for help.
However, you can try working on trouble codes from home. You need to gather information about the code as well as its causes and underlying problems. If you can determine the P0447 code’s exact cause, you can check a repair manual or online repair database. This can help you determine the next appropriate steps.
You must also have your owner’s manual in hand. Some fixes may not work for your vehicle’s make and mode. What works for a P0447 in a Nissan may not work for a Honda. If troubleshooting OBD codes becomes too technical for you, don’t think twice about consulting a mechanic.
Where to Get New EVAP System Parts to Clear Trouble Code P0447
Until you clear a P0447 trouble code from your vehicle, it might be hard to enjoy your road trips and city drives. The good news is that CarParts.com has everything you need to get your vehicle back on the road and performing like it’s new again.
Our website offers an excellent variety of EVAP system parts, from premium evaporative emissions system lines to OE-grade vapor canister vent valves. Carefully handpicked by a team of industry professionals, our products are guaranteed to last long.
Online shopping for car parts has never been this easy with CarParts.com. All you have to do is enter your vehicle’s year, make, and model into our vehicle selector to start browsing compatible products for your ride.
Never worry about going over budget when you shop from us. All our replacement parts come with a low-price guarantee, helping you get the best value for your money. Order now, and we’ll deliver everything you need in as fast as two business days.
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Check out our top-notch EVAP system parts today!
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Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.
