On some cars, the valve is on top of the engine or off to the right side. [4] X Research source If you’re still unsure where your car’s valve is located, check your car’s manual. Or, search online for your car’s make and model with “purge solenoid valve. ” Take a picture of the valve, tubes, and connectors so you know where everything goes when it comes time to reinstall it.
Some cars secure the purge solenoid valves with bolts. Just use a socket wrench to loosen them and take out the valve.
If your valve is really grimy, the MAF sensor cleaner should come out dirty and discolored. Keep spraying the cleaner inside the tube openings and shaking it until the cleaner comes out clear.
To ensure that the valve is fully dry before reinstalling it, blow air through the valves with a vacuum hand pump.
Make sure each hose is inserted back into its original location. These tubes are not interchangeable, as one intakes air and the other expels it. If your check engine light was on and cleaning your valve fixed your car’s issue, the light should turn off after letting your car idle for a few minutes. Or, use an OBD-II scanner to clear away the error codes.
To help this process go quicker, grab a friend to hold the pieces together as you glue. If you have a clamp or vise, place the valve inside to apply pressure as the epoxy cures. As an alternative to epoxy, use Room Temperature Vulcanizing (RTV) silicone.
All epoxies are slightly different, so consult the packaging to see how long it needs to dry and cure. If you crack the valve or can’t get it sealed back together, don’t put it back in your car. Luckily, these valves are only about $15-30 to replace. Double check that the vacuum tubes are inserted into their correct placements. They need to go in their original position, otherwise you can damage your car.
To test if your valve is stuck open, take out the vacuum tube that connects to the charcoal canister. Unplug the electrical connector from the valve and start your car. Then, simply place your finger over the tube opening on the valve. If you feel any suction or vacuum pressure, your valve is stuck open and needs to be replaced. [18] X Research source
When your car does get started, you might notice that it’s less powerful and doesn’t accelerate as fast.
Use an OBD-II scanner to find out where the problem is coming from in your EVAP system. Codes “P0443” and “P0444” usually refer to an issue with the valve.
