Signs Of Emission Control System Failure In Cars
by schearerswpadmin July 19, 2019The emission control system limits the amount of noxious gas released from the car into the environment. The car components that release gases are the fuel tank, carburetor, crankcase, and exhaust. These components are also necessary to run the car. The emission control system isolates and contains the gases within a closed system. This system is often referred to as the EVAP system.
The components of the emission control system include fuel fill cap, vapor recirculation tube, fuel tank vapor control valve, evaporative emission canister, fuel tank pressure sensor, canister vent valve, evaporative two-way valve, and the evaporative canister purge valve. The emission control system isolates and contains the gases within a closed system. This system is often referred to as the EVAP system.
The emission control system is regulated by a variety of local agencies in the United States and by the Environmental Protection Agency at the federal level. While the emission control system does take steps to protect the environment, it also helps protect public health. Without the emission control system, cars would release toxins known carcinogens, which can cause cancer. Some of these toxins may also result in carbon monoxide poisoning, asthma, headaches, and nausea, to name a few of the health problems associated with emissions.
Unfortunately, like all mechanical parts subjected to wear and tear, the emission control system can have problems and require repairs. Let’s take a look at emission control system failures and where to go for help.
Signs Your Emission Control System Needs Repair
Light Indicator on Dash or Error Code P0440
Sometimes the emission control system indicator light or the check engine light comes on. This may be the only indicator that anything is wrong with your car. In some cars, code P0440 will show up as error code on the dash. This is quite common and sometimes is simply due to the emission control sensor needing to be repaired. Other times, the sensor is doing its job and has picked up on a leak in a hose or a loss of pressure in some component of the emission control system. This needs to be assessed by a service professional to determine what is wrong and to make the necessary corrections to the car.
Performance Loss
Unexplained loss of vehicle performance may also indicate that there is something wrong with the emission control system. Because the emission control system is such a significant component in running the car, as it is connected to the the entire fuel and exhaust system, a problem with the fuel system, pressure in the fuel system, or in the air transfer systems can easily affect the car’s performance.
Consuming More Gas Than Normal
One thing that you might notice quickly is that your car is using more gas than normal. Automobile fuel evaporates quickly, even when the car is not running. The emission control system is designed to limit the loss of those gas vapors and contain them within the automotive system. If the system is not working properly, and depending on what part of the system is not working properly, you could find that your car is burning through gas much more quickly than it did in the past.
Smell of Fuel or Gas Inside or Outside Your Car
The smell of automobile fuel is hard to miss. If you smell it when your car is running or idling, you need to stop driving as soon as reasonably possible and have your car towed to the service station. Gas fumes are incredibly dangerous. They can burn the inside of your nostrils, cause headaches, nausea, vomiting, and they are highly flammable. Do not take the chance of causing serious harm to yourself or others. If you notice a strong smell of gas while your car is parked in a garage, DO NOT OPEN the garage door because the fumes could ignite. If you garage is attached to your house, exit the house, and call 911 immediately. Once you know that your home and loved ones are safe, then call Schearer’s Sales and Service, Inc. in Allentown, PA and tell them what is happening with your car so they can advise on how to safely transport your car for repair.
Schearer’s Sales And Service Cares About You And Your Car
Our technicians at Schearer’s Sales and Service, Inc., 
located in Allentown, PA have been building, fixing, and repairing European vehicles for years. They have taken what they love and are sharing it with the community of car owners who have come to trust and respect the Schearer’s Sales and Service, Inc. team. Call or stop to schedule an appointment today.