P0443 – Evaporative Emission Control System Purge Control Valve circuit Malfunction
What does P0443 mean?
The EVAP purge control valve circuit has an electrical fault. The purge valve controls when stored fuel vapors from the charcoal canister are drawn into the engine to be burned. This code refers to the valve's electrical circuit rather than a leak.
What causes P0443?
Listed from most to least common:
- 1Failed purge valve solenoid
- 2Damaged wiring or connector
- 3Short or open circuit in the control wire
- 4Corroded connector
- 5Blown fuse
Code breakdown
Common symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Rough idle, particularly if the valve is stuck open
- Hard starting immediately after refueling
- Failed emissions test
- Often no symptoms at all
How to diagnose
- 1Locate the purge valve, typically in the engine bay near the intake.
- 2Inspect the connector and wiring for damage or corrosion.
- 3Measure solenoid resistance against specification.
- 4Command the valve on and off with a scan tool and listen for a click.
- 5Verify the valve holds vacuum when closed — a valve stuck open causes the idle complaints.
Usually minor, though a purge valve stuck open can cause rough idle and hard starting after refueling.
Common fixes and estimated costs
| Repair | Estimated cost |
|---|---|
| Repair wiring or connector | $80–$300 |
| Replace purge valve | $100–$350 |
Costs are rough US estimates including parts and labor. Actual pricing varies significantly by vehicle, region, and shop rates.
Good to know
If the engine is hard to start right after filling the tank, a purge valve stuck open is a very likely explanation — raw vapor is being pulled into the intake while the engine is trying to start.
Related codes
This information is provided for general reference only and may vary by manufacturer, model, and year. It is not a substitute for professional diagnosis or repair.