The P1457 OBD2 code relates to the evaporative emissions control (EVAP) system of your vehicle. As a P1 code, it won’t be found on all vehicles but is limited to specific manufacturers. In the case of the P1457 code, it’s commonly associated with Hondas, though it can trigger about a dozen different vehicle brands.
While the exact definition of P1457 varies between makes and models, they all refer to a similar problem. It’s still a good idea to look for manufacturer-specific repair advice when you get this trouble code, as the repair process is more likely to differ between makes and models.
Most Common P1457 Code Definition (Honda, Acura):
Evaporative Emissions Control System Leakage EVAP Canister System
Other P1457 Code Definitions:
Fuel Tank Pressure Sensor Circuit High (Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep)
Unable to Pull Vacuum in Tank (Ford)
Purge Solenoid Valve Low System Malfunction (Hyundai, Kia, Mazda)
What Does P1457 Mean?
Your car’s EVAP system controls the vehicle’s emissions. Rather than allowing fuel vapor to escape directly into the atmosphere, it’s held in a canister and drawn back into the engine. This feature helps to regulate the engine’s temperature, as well as control harmful emissions.
There are two main parts to the EVAP system. The portion from the two-way valve to the purge valve can be thought of as the canister side, while the area from the two-way valve to the fuel tank is the tank side. This helps narrow down which part of the system has an issue when a trouble code occurs.
If the P1457 error code triggers, it indicates there is a small leak on the canister side of the EVAP system. Leaks that trigger P1457 without other error codes will generally be .02 inches in diameter or smaller. Larger leaks will typically also trigger other EVAP system codes (P0440-P0457).
The P1457 code can be very tricky to diagnose and repair. This is partially due to the complexity of the EVAP system itself, which has many components and moving parts. The small size of the leak can also make it difficult to detect without professional equipment, such as a smoke machine.
What Are The Symptoms Of The P1457 Code?
There are often no noticeable drivability symptoms with the P1457 trouble code. Common symptoms associated with this trouble code include:
- Activation of the check engine light
- The smell of fuel when driving
What Are The Causes Of P1457?
- EVAP canister vent valve stuck or corroded
- Damaged or missing gas cap
- Gas cap stuck open or failing to close
- Damaged canister fuel cap
- Leaks or damage in vacuum lines around the canister
- EVAP canister is damaged or defective
- Damaged or failing purge control solenoid
- Damaged or failing fuel tank pressure sensor
How Serious Is The P1457 Code?
The P1457 trouble code is of moderate severity. While you won’t experience any drivability symptoms, any leaks in your fuel system can trigger other issues. These range from poor gas mileage to misfires caused by a bad air/fuel mixture. Repairing the P1457 OBD2 code as soon as possible keeps it from becoming a more serious issue.
How To Diagnose And Fix The P1457 Code
Tools you’ll need:
- Check for any technical service bulletins related to P1457 that have come out for your vehicle, as well as checking your vehicle manual for any repair suggestions. Follow those recommendations first before you start in on a more generic diagnosis process.
- Use an OBD2 scan tool to read all trouble codes from your vehicle. If there are other codes present, fix those first, especially any related to the EVAP or fuel system.
- Clear all codes, then test drive your vehicle and scan again to see if the P1457 code comes back.
- Verify that your gas cap is present. Remove it and inspect it for cracks or damage, then clean it thoroughly and replace it. If this doesn’t clear the code, consider replacing the gas cap, even if there was no visible damage. This is a very cheap and easy repair and a common source of P1457 issues.
- Inspect the vacuum lines of the EVAP system on the canister side. Pay close attention to hose ends and connections, where leaks are most common. Feel any hidden areas for weak spots, hard spots, or other damage you can’t see.
- Visually inspect the charcoal canister and fuel tank for leaks or damage. These components can be complicated to replace, so if you see the damage, it’s best to go to a mechanic for repairs.
- Locate and inspect the canister vent valve. Corrosion, moisture, and debris inside the valve can cause it to stick or fail, triggering an EVAP leak code. Replace the valve if necessary.
Corrosion of the vent valve can allow moisture into the EVAP system, leading to internal shorts that, in severe cases, may cause damage to the powertrain control module (PCM). If the P1457 code still does not clear after replacing the vent valve, take your vehicle to a mechanic for further diagnosis. They can run a smoke test to find any leaks your inspection missed and will be able to make higher-level repairs to your electronic system if necessary.
Common Mistakes To Avoid While Diagnosing The P1457 Code
While the EVAP system’s complexity makes diagnosing P1457 tricky, you can usually fix it with a simple and affordable repair. Make sure to check the smaller components like the valves, hoses, and gas cap before beginning any complicated or expensive repairs.
P1457 can be caused by damage to the charcoal canister or fuel tank pressure sensor, but you will typically see other trouble codes as well if this is the case.
Tips To Avoid P1457 in the future
The easiest way to avoid EVAP leak codes like P1457 is to make sure you always tightly replace your gas cap after filling your tank. A loose, damaged, or missing gas cap can allow debris and moisture into the fuel system, leading to issues down the line.
Read more: P1457 Code: Meaning, Symptoms, Causes, Diagnostics, And Fixes
