99 Catera Error Code P0455

[jpmccr]

My wife's Catera Sport has the above error code and I am not sure how to fix it. I have checked the gas cap and it is fine. The car runs fine. I am unfamiliar with the system and I don't know how/where to look for other issues. I am trying to find a service manual on-line (eBay has a few I am watching). I would appreciate any help.

Thanks,
JP

[elvin315]

P0455 Evaporative Emission Control System Tank Detected (gross leak)

[jpmccr]

Where should I look first? I have no idea what I am looking for or where the components are???

[jpmccr]

Ok, one more question. My wife has been running 89 octane in her Catera. Do you think this would have anything to do with the CEL and the Error Code P0455?? The tank wasn't completely empty when she filled it (between 1/8th and empty). She never lets it get this low, just one of those days. Think it sucked up some air or garbage??? I am waiting to let the tank run down before topping off with premium.

[investor74]

Make sure the gas cap is tight (several clicks) and wait for several start / drive / warm up cycles to clear the code itself. It may take a few days - the CEL has to see the condition cleared three times in a row or something like that. If your reader can clear the code, you can try that and see if it comes back. If it doesn't clear itself, I'd try a new gas cap.

BTW, I think it is good for your car to keep the fuel level filled, this protects the gas pump, etc. I have my Catera for 11 1/2 years, always used premium.

Barry

[jpmccr]

OK, here's the pop. I think I finally figured out the problem. It is NJ. We cannot pump our own gas here and I think what happened was the attendant thought the cap had sealed on her last fill. I went to check it and guess what, it pulled right out. It hadn't locked in place. How long was it since her last tank of gas you ask?? About a week. So now every time she gets gas, she pulls out and checks it. We got rid of the code by going to Advanced Auto and they took their scanner and erased it. We installed the cap properly and guess what - NO CEL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We like simple . . . . .

:-)

[lakesidepark]

"I have checked the gas cap and it is fine."
famous first words.
...

...

... ok I won't say it. If I do then Murphy will git me; he's always waiting for me to screw up. Always.

Glad ya found da problem with little grief. Sometimes that's how it goes.

As far as keeping the tank full - until gas gets cheaper every day I pack as much as I can.