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P1457

Unable to Pull Vacuum in Tank

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By KBB Service Advisor
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Reviewed by Gary Hardesty

What Is the P1457 Code?

Symptoms
Causes
Seriousness
Can I Still Drive?
Diagnose
Difficulty of Inspecting
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The P1457 code comes up as “Unable to Pull Vacuum in Tank” and sets when the Power Control Module (PCM) notices a fault that keeps the EVAP system from pulling or maintaining a vacuum in the fuel tank. Some manufacturers, like Honda, designate this code as “EVAP System – Leak Detected.”

Most EVAP systems are made up of the fuel tank, the fuel cap, various wiring and vacuum lines, along with the car’s fuel lines and control solenoid. In addition, there often are flow and pressure sensors and a charcoal canister and air pumps in most EVAP systems. This system works to keep fuel vapors from escaping to the atmosphere. These vapors are stored in a charcoal-filled canister before they’re routed to the engine through the engine’s vacuum lines to combust during the air/fuel ignition process. Vacuum leaks in the canister can even cause air to make its way into the EVAP system while the PCM is performing self-tests. Once this happens, the engine cannot create or maintain the vacuum needed to test the system, and the PCM sets the P1457 code.

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What Are the Symptoms of a P1457 Code?

Most of the time, the only symptom present with the P1457 code is that the PCM sets the check engine light. There may be symptoms like a rough idle if the vacuum leak is large enough. Your engine may even frequently stall out. You also may notice the smell of fuel emitting from your vehicle and sense the scent within the cabin of your car. It’s important to note that if these symptoms are present, it’s very likely that other codes related to fuel or air metering could be as well. Also, keep in mind that you may not pass emissions tests if there are leaks in the EVAP system.

What Are Some Causes of a P1457 Code?

The P1457 code can have several causes and, thus, takes some time to diagnose properly. One of the first and more common causes is a defective vent valve or vent valve solenoid. The vacuum process starts with the engine creating a small vacuum in the EVAP system that causes negative pressure, which is then converted into a varying signal voltage by the fuel tank pressure sensor. The PCM continuously monitors the fuel tank pressure (FTP) sensor for any variations in vacuum levels while the system is sealed. The outside air temperature, however, is monitored to account for evaporation of the fuel that happens naturally during this process. This slowly increases fuel tank pressure and affects the accuracy of the leak check the PCM performs.

Another common cause of the P1457 code is a defective or loose fuel filler cap or damaged vacuum lines. A damaged or corroded charcoal canister can also cause the vacuum process not to operate correctly. You also have to be wary of damaged, burnt, or corroded wiring and connectors, as these can also cause the code to set. A defective purge valve also can cause this issue if it’s stuck open, which allows for outside air to make its way into the EVAP system. This is why you’re sure to find accompanying purge valve or vapor flow and pressure codes present alongside the P1457 code. Finally, a defective fuel tank pressure sensor can cause the issue to appear.

How Serious Is the P1457 Code?

The P1457 code is of moderate severity because, while you may not notice driveability symptoms, any leaks in your fuel system can lead to other serious issues. These issues should not be underestimated because, if left untreated, they may lead to other engine components succumbing to damage. In addition, you’ll still notice poor fuel mileage and possible engine misfires caused by bad air/fuel mixtures present. With that said, you should have your vehicle taken to a certified service center as soon as you can.

Can I Still Drive with a P1457 Code?

As we mentioned, you may not notice immediate driveability symptoms with the P1457 code, but this doesn’t mean that you should continue to drive your vehicle as usual. Driving your vehicle can lead to further stresses put on your engine due to the poor air/fuel mixture present, leading to further damage of engine components. In addition, it’s never worth risking any issue that deals with vacuum lines and air and fuel mixtures because these systems have to perform regularly for your engine to operate.

How Easy Is It to Diagnose a P1457 Code?

Diagnosing the P1457 code takes several steps and involves components ranging from charcoal canisters to vent valves. With that said, a qualified technician will start by using an OBD scanner to read and keep any stored codes from your vehicle and repair any EVAP related codes first. They will then clear the codes, test drive the car and look for the P1457 to reappear. If it does, then they will inspect the gas cap for damage before moving on to the vacuum line of the EVAP system on the canister side. The technician will then assess the charcoal canister itself to see if it’s defective or damaged. Finally, they will look at the canister vent valve as these can often succumb to moisture and debris that can cause them to stick or fail.

How Difficult Is It to Inspect a P1457 Code?

The P1457 code can be very tedious to inspect since so many components are involved in the vacuum process and the EVAP system. Qualified technicians with prior experience inspecting EVAP systems should handle issues related to the P1457 code. It’s not recommended to DIY this issue because you can cause further damage to your vehicle by misdiagnosing the problem.

With that said, the technician will look to repair the vacuum lines in the EVAP system if that is what’s causing the P1457 issue. They will also repair or replace any damaged wiring or connectors leading to the charcoal canister before performing a series of tests ranging from voltage to resistance tests on the wiring in the system. The technician will check the values related to the PCM and the vent valve before making sure that the valve solenoid is receiving full voltage. They will replace the valve if the readings don’t meet the required standards.

Need Additional Help with Your P1457 Code?

The P1457 code should not be taken lightly because it can lead to further issues with your vehicle. However, by following our guidelines here, you should be able to spot the signs of this issue immediately and take the necessary steps to repair your vehicle and keep it running longer.

P1457 Q&A

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