I've just noticed that I don't have pressure in my fuel tank. I am not sure if it's supposed to do that, but when I open up the gas cap after driving, there is no air suction noise at all. My other maxima had that noise.
I understand the 0309 code is regarding the EVAP Canister Vent Control Valve. If this valve is stuck open (just what the trouble code states) can this be a cause for the lack of pressure? I'm going to inspect my gas cap now as well, although I am not sure how I can check it's function, maybe blow on it and see if there is a vacuum?

thanks

 

I had the same problem. Check the gas cap, it may be missing the rubber seal.

 

The lack of pressure or vacuum is a direct result of the EVAP CVCV being stuck open, as indicated by DTC 0309. There is no point in checking the fuel filler cap.

 

Wait, so did you actually get the "check engine" light and pull the code, or did you just assume it could be EVAP CVCV malfunction?

 

Yep, got the service engine soon light and pulled a couple of codes both related to the EVAP system.

Daniel, thanks. I'm going to look at it this saturday.

 

Hi, I'm a newbie, so be nice.

Some basic questions, since I was just told by the dealer that I got codes relating to the evap/separator system as well:

1. IIRC, the '96 Maxima's were NOT OBDII, correct? If so, is there a cheap way of retrieving codes, or do I have to go to the dealer?
2. Are the codes "self-clearing"? I.e., if the problem is fixed, does the code go away, or does this also require a trip to the dealer to get the flag cleared? An ECU reset didn't seem to make it go away, even momentarily (it was back immediately).
3. What ill effects are present if the evap system fails? I was under the impression that it was primarily an emissions issue, and therefore could wait until I could find time to crawl under the car. I mean, I'm all for green and all, but I just want to make sure the car doesn't burst into flames if this isn't taken care of right away.

Thanks.

 

All '96-up Maximas are OBD-2 compliant. You may do a Diagnostic Trouble Code readout and reset the Check Engine Light. Read the Sticky ECU Diagnostic Trouble Codes. It will point you to a site with detailed instructions. The only tool needed is an ordinary flat-blade screwdriver.

The Sticky addresses this question too. Codes are "self-clearing" but it doesn't happen right away. You can reset the Engine Control Module and turn off the Check Engine Light with the same screwdriver. If your CEL came back immediately, that means the ECM senses a "hard" failure of some kind.

There are many ways the EVAP system can fail. I hesitate to answer this question without knowing which DTCs your car is setting. In general, EVAP problems are not urgent and it is safe to drive the car until you have a chance to diagnose and repair.

 

Thanks, Daniel!

I'm still finding my way around the site, so I appreciate the pointers to the stickys.

I could've sworn my car wasn't OBDII. Oh, well. That's $75 blown at the dealer, when I could've just used my friend's OBDII scanner. Stupid.

Again, thanks for the info.