Hi, Good Morning.
Last weekend in my 2006 RX400H (140000 mile) check engine light came on. Yesterday I took it to autozone and their scanner showed the Code 'P1420 Evaporative Canister Small Leak'. Anyone else had this issue before? I don't know much about the cars beyond regular maintenance. Any information will be greatly appreciated.
Is this an expensive repair? Should I go to the dealer or any mechanic can do this job?
Also, can I drive it with the warning light on for now? Or it is dangerous?
Thank you all in advance.

 

You can drive with EVAP codes. Likely won't pass emissions...
There is PLETHORA of EVAP codes caused by fuel tank cap. I replaced it twice on our RX.

 

Thank you so much Ukrkoz. I will replace the fuel tank cap and see.

 

You don't really need to replace it just because I said so. Simply take it off and screw it back in with several clicks followed. It takes few miles to drive for code to go away, if that was the problem.
Also, make sure to NOT overfill the car. EVAP tube is very close to the filler neck, gas can get into the canister, then charcoal in it expands and blocks passages. So you do fill till one, maybe 2 clicks at the most.

 

Thank you so much. I did as you said with the cap. Lets see now.
I don't ever overfill. Wherever it stops first time. So that may not be the issue.
I will put some mile this weekend. Lets see if the warning light goes away.
Thanks again.

 

Sooo... any news?

 

This weekend I replaced the fuel cap and my mechanic reset the error code. He wants me to see if the CEL comes back. If it does he will do the next thing.
Meanwhile suv is running fine.
I will update whatever I find out.
Thank you again.

 

Ok, some update on the situation in case anyone looking for help in future.
I replaced the gas cap, reset the error code, after driving about 150 miles and about 20/25 starts, CEL came back.
Took it to a mechanic who had machine for smoke test. But he could not see a leak. Then he manually checked the hoses and found a damaged one right behind the air filter. The small hose is the connection between the valves under the hood and the canister.
Its been 2 weeks, about 100 miles and 15/20 starts. CEL didn't show up yet. Hoping this was it.
Thank you all for help.