My 1997 Mercury Tracer has reached 100,000 miles and the check engine light is on with fault code P1443 indicating an issue with the Evaporative Emission (EVAP) Control System. We have already replaced the EGR valve and EGR pressure sensor, but the problem persists. What should we do next to resolve this EVAP-related error?
Hi, I'm trying to locate information about the evaporative purge canister solenoid and flow sensor. Do you know if the evap purge solenoid is the same as the front oxygen sensor? Is the flow sensor a dedicated EVAP flow sensor? Thanks for your help — we've been dealing with this issue for over a year and have visited three mechanics without success. The car still fails inspection.
The evaporative purge solenoid is located on the driver's side fender inside the engine compartment. It has a whitish-colored vacuum fitting with two hoses connected in series: one from the carbon canister, then to the purge solenoid, and finally to the flow sensor — all inline along the same vacuum line. The flow sensor is specifically the EVAP flow sensor. There was an earlier TSB or SSM (Service Special Memorandum) addressing this issue. Replace both parts, which each have a 2-wire connector. Good luck with your repair.
Thank you so much — this information is incredibly helpful! We found the parts on the vehicle and purchased them from the dealer as part of a kit that included vacuum hoses. However, those hoses were severely deteriorated and had completely disconnected from the purge canister. After replacement, the P1443 code has not returned. That said, we're still seeing a persistent P0401 code — Insufficient EGR Flow. We've already replaced the DPFE, EGR valve, EGR solenoid, oxygen sensors, and cleaned the intake manifold carbon buildup.
P0401 indicates that the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) does not detect EGR flow when commanded. The vehicle may have a 'DPFE' (Differential Pressure Feedback EGR) sensor with one hose connected to exhaust and one electrical connector. With the engine idling, apply vacuum to the EGR valve using an external source — the engine should stumble or stall, confirming that the EGR valve can open and flow properly. Next, verify that there is vacuum at the EGR solenoid while the engine is running. Without a scan tool for data stream monitoring, these tests are limited. A practical test: install a vacuum gauge on the EGR valve's vacuum port and tape it to your windshield. While driving at light cruise with the engine warmed up, ensure the gauge reads at least 5 inches of mercury. This confirms proper EGR function. Good luck!
The evaporative canister purge solenoid and flow sensor are likely the root causes of your P1443 code. The EVAP system manages fuel vapor emissions, not EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation). Replacing both components is recommended to fix this issue.