Diagnostic Tips

During diagnosis, you can compare the LDP solenoid activity with the monitor sequence in Figure 6. If the PCM detects a problem that could set a DTC, the testing is halted and LDP solenoid activity will stop. As each section of the test begins, it indicates that the previous section passed successfully. By watching to see which tests complete, you can see if any conditions are present that the PCM considers abnormal.

For example, if the LDP solenoid is energized for the test cycles to test for blockage (P1486), it means that the LDP has already passed its test for P1494. Then, if the PCM detects a possible blockage, it will set a temporary fault without turning on the MIL and continue the leak portion of the test. However, the PCM will assume that the system is already pressurized and skip the rapid pump cycles.

Always diagnose leaks, if possible, before disconnecting connections. Disconnecting connections may mask a leak condition.

Keep in mind that if the purge solenoid seat is leaking, it could go undetected since the leak would end up in the intake manifold. Disconnect the purge solenoid at the manifold when leak checking. In addition, a pinched hose fault (P1486) could set if the purge solenoid does not purge the fuel system properly (blocked seat). The purge solenoid must vent the fuel system prior to the LDP system test. If the purge solenoid cannot properly vent the system the LDP cannot properly complete the test for P1486 and this fault can set due to pressure being in the EVAP system during the test sequence.

Multiple actuation's of the DRBIII® Leak Detection Pump (LDP) Monitor Test can hide a 0.020 leak because of excess vapor generation. Additionally, any source for additional vapor generation can hide a small leak in the EVAP system. Excess vapor generation can delay the fall of the LDP diaphragm thus hiding the small leak. An example of this condition could be bringing a cold vehicle into a warm shop for testing or high ambient temperatures.

Fully plugged and partially plugged underhood vacuum lines have been known to set MIL conditions. P1494 and P0456 can be set for this reason. Always, thoroughly, check plumbing for pinches or blockage before condemning components.