P0445: EVAP purge control valve circuit shorted
You can keep driving. Get it checked when convenient.
Can I drive with P0445?
Yes, you can keep driving. Purge valve circuit drawing too much current; vehicle is safe to operate.
What does P0445 mean?
P0445 stands for Evaporative Emission Control System Purge Control Valve Circuit Shorted.
Symptoms you may notice
- Steady check engine light with minimal drivability symptoms
- Normal engine power, idle, and acceleration
- Possible faint gasoline vapor smell near gas cap
How much does it cost to fix?
Repair costs for code P0445 depend on the specific underlying root cause, ranging from simple DIY checks to component replacement. The table below lists the most common causes and rough price ranges in USD:
- Internally shorted purge valve solenoid
- Melted harness wiring touching engine block
- Water intrusion in electrical plug
- Blown auxiliary fuse
What to do next
- Disconnect the purge valve harness and check for melted insulation.
- Test resistance across the valve pins with an ohmmeter (should not be 0 ohms).
- Replace the faulty purge valve.
Last updated: October 2026
Related codes
General guidance only, not a professional diagnosis. If the check-engine light is flashing, or the car is running rough, overheating or losing power, stop driving and get help.
About this code
Code P0445 indicates a shorted circuit in the purge valve wiring or internal coil windings. The computer shuts down current to that driver circuit to protect itself from damage. You will experience no engine hesitation or starting problems while driving with this code.