techsc400

iTrader: (6)

Question for Lexus experts, please help.

My 2003 ES300 (99K miles) has a "Check Engiine" light came on about a month ago after driving 4 hours straight with 90-100 miles/h.
I reset it by disconnecting battery for 20 seconds.

It was fine for a month. After another long distance trip, "check engine" light came on again.
I took it to the dealer and have them scan the error code.

P0441 - Evaporative Emission Control Purge flow
P0442 - Leak Detected (Small Leak)
P0446 - Vent Control Malfunction

Dealer suggested to replace:
1. Gas tank cap ($35)
2. Whole Canister Assembly ($260)
3. Purge Solenoid Valve (Valve, Vacuum) ($50)

These are parts only price, labor will be another $250.
Dealer reset it again, so "Check Engine" light is off now.

I am planning to replace the gas cap by myself right away.
Any suggestions, ideas, or your experience would be appreciated.
Thank you, fellow CL member...

GEORGE_JET

By all means, change the gas cap, also check all the vapor hoses. closely inspect the hoses for splits, cracks.

Pogigreg

I just got a P0446 on my GS400. Is there anything special about the Lexus Gas cap? Or would any gas cap from the auto parts store work?

JSM1284

I would stick with OEM gas caps. Aftermarket ones never seem to seal properly...

zajac

iTrader: (1)

I have the same codes on my 2000 ES. From extensive research, if all three of these codes pop up, the charcoal canister is the most likely culprit. I highly doubt you should have to pay someone to change it, it's only about a thirty minute job. GL!

charley240

iTrader: (6)

yeah, make sure you give them your vin so that you can get the correct charcoal canister, it is very easy, and should already include a vsv. i ended up having to do that and the vsv was non returnable.
goodluck
Charley

techsc400

iTrader: (6)

OK. progress report.
I ordered and replace gas tank cap with new one.
Reset the error code by disconnecting battery. Engine error light came back on again about driven half tank of gas.

Next, I will try to change charcol (filter only) canister. fuel filter after that.
Can someone point out where it is on 2003 ES300? I am assuming that it is in engine room somewhere and changing is like (replacing engine air filter).

charley240

iTrader: (6)

hey there, usually this sign ends up being a vsv switch. i have a brand new one as long as you confirm the pn. i ended up needing the whole canister, but if you read around, most have bad vsv switches. so now im stuck with this new switch.lmk
Charley