P0496: EVAP system high purge flow
Drive carefully. Get it checked within a week or two.
Can I drive with P0496?
Yes, but drive carefully and get it checked soon. Purge valve is stuck wide open, causing hard starting right after refueling at gas stations.
What does P0496 mean?
P0496 stands for Evaporative Emission System High Purge Flow.
Symptoms you may notice
- Hard starting immediately after filling up with gas
- Steady check engine light with no driving issues
- Faint gasoline smell near the fuel tank or engine bay
How much does it cost to fix?
Repair costs for code P0496 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:
- EVAP purge valve stuck open mechanically
- Saturated charcoal canister dumping liquid fuel
- Faulty fuel tank pressure sensor
- Purge valve wiring shorted
What to do next
- Does your car crank long and struggle to start only after filling up with gas? If yes, replace the purge valve.
- Disconnect the purge valve vacuum line and feel for suction with engine at idle.
- Replace the EVAP purge solenoid.
Last updated: October 2026
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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 P0496 occurs when the engine detects high vacuum in the EVAP lines when the purge valve should be closed. Drivers frequently experience an engine that sputters or won't start immediately after filling the gas tank because raw fuel vapors flood the intake. Replacing the purge valve cures it immediately.