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2001 Dodge Caravan EVAP System Issue: P0455 Code Reappears After Cap and Hose Repairs

Model: Dodge Caravan Fault Code: P0440 Posted: 2008-07-30 07:36

Hi everyone, About a month ago, I took my 2001 Dodge Caravan for an emission test — it passed. The day after, the "check engine" light came on. I visited Auto Zone to scan the OBD and found code P0455, indicating a large or small evaporative system leak. The technician recommended replacing the gas cap, which I did. Four days later, the check engine light returned. I took it back again — same diagnosis: new gas cap installed. Three days after that, the issue repeated. I then inspected all EVAP hoses, canister connections, and service port under the van. I replaced the purge valve, and for five days everything seemed fine until the light came on once more. At this point, I’m frustrated — the problem keeps recurring. The odd part is a sound that occasionally occurs during driving: it sounds like a trumpet or loud hiss, similar to what happens during a soccer game. I suspect pressure builds somewhere in the system and then releases suddenly. Using my own OBD2 scanner, I ran the I/M test and saw "NO" readings for catalyst, EVAP, O2, and EGR systems. This seems unlikely — I don’t believe multiple systems are failing simultaneously. Instead, I suspect one issue is triggering others. What could be causing this? What should my next diagnostic steps be? Thanks for any insights or suggestions! Vehicle: 2001 Dodge Caravan (3.3L V6 Flex-Fuel) Mileage: ~160,000 miles Maintenance history: O2 sensor and condenser replaced; all standard maintenance performed (oil, brakes), no other repairs.

Related fault codes
P0440P0441P0442P0443P0446
Comments (11)
Anonymous 2008-07-30 08:47

The 'NO' or 'not ready' readings you're seeing are not indicative of actual system failure — they occur because you've cleared the codes. All non-continuous monitors reset to 'not ready' after a code reset. The trumpet-like sound is unlikely to be caused by the EVAP system itself. What exactly is producing that noise? Where does the purging originate from? That may be the key to diagnosing the root cause.

Anonymous 2008-07-30 11:57

That's a great question — what could be causing that unusual sound? Could it be related to the intake system or EGR valve? My van runs smoothly and has no detectable leaks. I've had only standard maintenance (oil, brakes) and recent replacements of O2 sensor and condenser. The vehicle is 160k miles old. Any thoughts on this?

Anonymous 2008-07-30 13:50

Depending on your engine size, check under the van near the EVAP canister for a small valve with two hoses and a vacuum line connected to the top. This is typically the vent valve — if it's present, test whether it holds vacuum or if you hear air suction while driving. If you detect suction, that valve may be faulty. If no such valve is visible, let me know.

Anonymous 2008-07-30 13:51

The trumpet-like noise might actually come from the A/C compressor — especially when the radiator fan fails to engage properly, causing refrigerant to boil and produce a loud hiss. This issue has been reported in several Chrysler models. If the system is properly charged, this could be the source. For EVAP issues, check the forums — I've diagnosed similar problems on 2001 Dodge Caravan models before.

Anonymous 2008-07-30 14:06

Come on — doesn't every car make a honking sound? Mine does every time I press the center of my steering wheel. It's so strange!

Anonymous 2008-07-30 20:09

Thanks for all the input! I agree with Jeff — the noise only occurs when the A/C is running, not during normal driving. So, is it possible that the AC system is overcharged? Or could there be an issue with the HVAC switch or fan? If so, how would that relate to the EVAP code and the check engine light? I’ll check the A/C system tomorrow and inspect the valve near the canister over the weekend.

Anonymous 2008-07-30 20:39

One more question — where exactly is the vent valve located, and where's the Leak Detection Pump (LDP) on a 2001 Dodge Caravan with a 3.3L engine? Thanks!

Anonymous 2008-07-31 05:18

The noise has nothing to do with the EVAP code — it’s unrelated. If the system is overcharged, that would only happen if someone manually charged it incorrectly. Have your A/C professionally checked. As for the EVAP system: the Leak Detection Pump (LDP) is located under the van near the steering rack; the purge solenoid is under the hood. Follow the vacuum lines under the hood to the service port — you may find split hoses or a solenoid nearby, or beneath the canister.

Anonymous 2008-07-31 06:17

The EVAP canister and pump are located underneath the vehicle, near the driver’s feet. There are several rubber hoses connecting plastic tubes under the air cleaner box — these hoses may be cracked or disconnected. Be sure to inspect all connections when tracing back from the purge valve.

Anonymous 2008-08-05 08:41

I've confirmed the A/C issue — the trumpet-like noise is gone. It was likely caused by a faulty compressor, as previously suggested. Thanks! Regarding the EVAP system: this morning, about half a mile from home on my way to work, the check engine light came back on. I’ll rescan the OBD when I get home. My best guess now is that it’s P0455 again — possibly due to a failing Leak Detection Pump (LDP) that's not functioning properly.

Anonymous 2008-08-05 08:43

I’ve driven for nine days without the check engine light coming on. That’s impressive!