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All gas-powered vehicles are equipped with an evaporative emissions control system. Gasoline vapors contain harmful chemicals that can cause nausea and headaches. Auto makers have been required to process these gases to prevent them from entering the environment, especially for the area around a vehicle that can cause health issues for people.
This system takes fuel vapor from inside the fuel tank and collects it in the evaporative canister or charcoal canister. At a time determined by the engine control module, the vapors are transferred into the engine along with the air/fuel mixture to be burnt, effectively eliminating their environmental impact. As they pass from the charcoal canister to the engine, the fuel vapor passes through a evaporative canister filter that removes water vapor and contaminants, ensuring only clean fuel vapor goes into the engine. The contaminants are then released through a vent in the canister filter.
The evaporative canister filter doesn’t require regular maintenance or servicing, however if large amounts of contaminated fuel go through the system, the filter can be plugged. If that happens, the check engine light will illuminate and the engine may experience symptoms like flooding or a rough idle, similar to fuel system problems.
It may be necessary to replace the evaporative canister filter if it becomes plugged due to debris or excess moisture in the fuel, though regular maintenance and servicing is not required. If your evaporative canister filter leaks, or has been diagnosed as faulty or plugged, you need to have it replaced by one of our expert mechanics.
A plugged filter will result in a rough engine idle and/or fumes. Although not an inherent safety risk, the canister filter should be replaced as soon as possible.
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