← Back to list

2001 Chrysler Intrepid 2.7L P0442 OBD2 Code: Evaporative Emission System Leak (Small) - Gas Cap Replacement & Diagnosis Tips

Model: 2001 Intrepid 2.7L Fault Code: P0442 Posted: 2005-11-16 01:35

I recently purchased a 2001 Chrysler Intrepid with 117,000 miles and it has been well-maintained. After refueling, the Check Engine Light came on. A mechanic scanned the vehicle and found fault code P044-2 — indicating a small evaporative emission system leak. He suggested replacing the gas cap as the most likely cause. I replaced the original cap with an aftermarket one from AutoZone. However, the Check Engine Light returned the next day. After performing the 'on-off-on-off' test, both my odometer and OBD2 scanner confirmed P0442 again — along with a new code, P1684. I'm wondering if aftermarket gas caps are reliable. Are OEM caps superior? Is this issue worth pursuing further, or should I just monitor it until symptoms worsen? Could there be another source of the leak in the evaporative system (e.g., vent valve or fuel tank)? Should I consider a professional smoke test instead of continuing with cap replacements? From what I've read, P0442 is generally not a major safety concern — but could it lead to increased emissions over time? What are typical repair solutions for this issue? Where should I look next in the system? Have others successfully resolved this on their 2001 Intrepid with aftermarket or OEM caps?

Related fault codes

P0442

Comments (3)

Anonymous 2005-11-16 13:42

I recommend replacing the gas cap with an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) unit, then reset the code. If the P0442 returns, it's likely due to a small leak in the evaporative system. For more detailed information, see: https://www.obd-codes.com/p0442

Anonymous 2005-11-22 12:59

I replaced my aftermarket gas cap with a new OEM cap from my local dealership. After clearing the code via scan tool, it returned three days later. I've been advised to perform a smoke test on the evaporative system. Is this something a DIYer can safely attempt at home, or is it better to take it to a dealer or specialized repair shop? While P0442 isn't considered critical, could it lead to increased emissions over time? What are common fixes for this issue? Where should I inspect next in the system? Have others resolved this successfully on their 2001 Intrepid models?

Anonymous 2006-01-10 14:23

Leak detection pump vent valves were a known failure point on several 2001 Chrysler Intrepid models during my time at a dealership. These issues often triggered P0442 codes even after gas cap replacement. I recall that the valve itself costs less than $30, though it's typically only available through dealerships. Once located — usually under the vehicle near the fuel tank — it’s manageable for a skilled DIYer to replace. In my experience, many aftermarket gas caps fail quality testing even when new, which may explain recurring P0442 codes despite cap replacement.