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Updated on Jan 31, 2024

John Davis

Expert Automotive Writer

Reviewed by Kathleen Flear, Director of Content

Edited by Jessica Barrett, Senior Car & Insurance Editor

What's on this page?

How much does it cost to replace a leak detection pump?
Where can I get my leak detection pump replaced?
How will a mechanic replace my leak detection pump?
What happens if I don’t replace my leak detection pump?
What is a leak detection pump?
Can I replace my leak detection pump myself?
FAQs
Meet Our Experts

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How much does it cost to replace a leak detection pump?

The average cost for a leak detection pump replacement is $150-$190. But you’ll need to keep in mind that those are estimates, and your actual cost will depend on your car and location.

How long does it take to replace a leak detection pump? While replacement times vary from car to car, a trained mechanic will generally take between 30 minutes and one hour to perform the service.

How did we estimate these prices?
Jerry's experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all 50 states in the US, including everything from the total cost of repair services to the hourly labor cost for mechanic labor in each shop. We combined that data with our expert database of hundreds of real repair jobs, thousands of real cars, millions of real car part prices in order to best estimate the cost of each repair service. Our labor cost estimate is calculated by taking the average hourly labor rate for a certified mechanic in the US, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair. We recommend you compare your local shops with Jerry and contact those shops directly to get final pricing for your vehicle.

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What parts do I need for my leak detection pump replacement?

You should check your vehicle repair guide and owner’s manual for model-specific information. But here’s a basic overview of what you may need:

Leak detection pump: This is the main part that you’re going to replace. A new pump can cost between $30 and $150.

Miscellaneous parts: If any associated parts, like hoses, connectors, seals, and gaskets, are damaged, you may need to replace them at the same time. These parts are relatively inexpensive and range from $5 to $30.

Some reputable brands we recommend for leak detection pumps are Dorman, ACDelco, and Mopar. For other parts, trusted brands like Gates, Dorman, ACDelco, and Fel-Pro offer reliable components to ensure proper sealing and connection within your vehicle's emission control system. You can typically find these brands from retailers such as AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, and RockAuto, both online and in-store. However, like price, recommended brands may also vary depending on your vehicle's specific year, make, and model.

Should I buy OEM or aftermarket parts?

For most automotive repair jobs, original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts are the best choice, especially for newer cars.

OEM parts are designed by your vehicle’s manufacturer specifically to fit your car. They come with a solid warranty and are high quality. The downside is that OEM parts tend to be pricey.

Aftermarket parts are generally less expensive and easier to find, but they may be of lower quality. You can save money by purchasing an aftermarket part, but don’t forget to check the part number to confirm it fits your car.

Where can I buy the parts for my leak detection pump replacement?

If you want OEM parts, you’ll have to visit your local dealership or contact an authorized parts supplier. You can find aftermarket parts at your local auto parts stores—like Advance Auto Parts and AutoZone—and online retailers like Amazon and RockAuto.

Find out what parts are recommended for my car

Where can I get my leak detection pump replaced?

Finding the right auto repair shop can be difficult and time-consuming. Jerry's

GarageGuard™

makes it easier by helping you compare repair estimates and hourly rates from more than 2,500 shops around the U.S.

Jerry's GarageGuard™ generates fair price estimates using real hourly rates from local shops. Use it to plan for upcoming maintenance, learn about diagnostic fees, and find the shops near you with the best customer reviews.

Check out some of our vetted shops below and download the app to search for quality repair services in your area.

115 Reviews

On The Go Tires

(Mobile repair service), Fort Myers, FL

Leak Detection Pump Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$193

(Parts - $173, Labor - $20)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$75

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (239) 940-3250

182 Reviews

Factory Auto Service

446 B Western Ave, Brighton, MA

Leak Detection Pump Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$194

(Parts - $173, Labor - $21)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (617) 922-4913

119 Reviews

RepairSmith - Orange County

(Remote Truck Service), Anaheim, CA

Leak Detection Pump Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$202

(Parts - $173, Labor - $29)

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (877) 320-2869

176 Reviews

Masters Touch Auto Repair, Inc.

6701 Chew Ave, Philadelphia, PA

Leak Detection Pump Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$198

(Parts - $173, Labor - $25)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$65

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (215) 843-3400

How did we vet these shops?
Jerry experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the US. We talked to real shop customers, and analyzed both real shop pricing data and thousands of real customer reviews from each shop to verify them individually. We do not partner with the shops listed above, and our analysis is always unbiased.

How will a mechanic replace my leak detection pump?

While the exact replacement process will vary from car to car, here are the general steps your mechanic will follow to replace your leak detection pump:

Raise the car off the ground

Locate the leak detection pump (on most cars, it’s attached to the evaporative emission control system canister)

Apply a layer of penetrating oil to the mounting bolts if present

Disconnect the electrical connector

Disconnect any hoses

Remove the mounting bolts if present

Remove the old pump

Position the new leak detection pump on the vapor canister

Install the mounting bolts

Reconnect the hoses

Reconnect the electrical connections

Replace any skid plates or panels removed to access the charcoal canister

Lower the vehicle

Start the engine to confirm the check engine light is not present

Take the car for a 10-mile test drive

What happens if I don’t replace my leak detection pump?

If your car has a bad leak detection pump and you choose not to replace it, you’ll likely face these issues:

Increased emissions: A bad leak detection pump can cause the EVAP system to malfunction. If that happens, your car will likely release more harmful toxins than is normal. This is bad for you and the environment.

Check engine light: The check engine light is the primary symptom of a bad leak detection pump. If you ignore this light, you may not be aware of other problems until it’s too late.

Reduced fuel efficiency: A bad leak detection pump can disrupt the operation of the evaporative emissions system. This can cause the engine to run less efficiently and lead to reduced fuel mileage.

Performance issues: A faulty leak detection pump can lead to performance problems, like rough idling and hesitation during acceleration.

Failed emissions test: If the leak detection pump is bad, you’ll likely fail an emissions test. This can have legal consequences depending on where you live.

What is a leak detection pump?

A leak detection pump is a critical part of your car’s evaporative emission control (EVAP) system. Its primary job is to monitor the EVAP system and detect fuel vapor leaks.

The EVAP system prevents your vehicle from releasing excessive pollutants by collecting the fuel vapors that build inside your fuel tank. The vapors collect in a charcoal canister, where they’re converted into hydrocarbons and carbon dioxide.

The hydrocarbons are recycled through the purge valve back into the intake manifold. From there, they mix with air and fuel and burn up as part of the combustion process. The carbon dioxide exits the canister through the vent valve and is released into the outside air.

The leak detection pump is designed to catch EVAP system leaks. When the pump detects a large or small leak, it triggers the car’s onboard diagnostic (OBD) system, which illuminates the check engine light.

When should I replace the leak detection pump on my car?

There is no set replacement schedule for the leak detection pump. That means you only need to replace it when it fails. Here are the most common signs of a bad leak detection pump:

Check engine light: Most of the time, the only sign of a bad leak detection pump is a check engine light. But since the light may appear for many reasons, you’ll have to use an OBD scan tool to identify the diagnostic trouble code (DTC).

Fuel smell: An EVAP leak will most likely result in a strong gas odor. While this can indicate general EVAP system problems, it can also be a sign of a faulty leak detection pump.

Performance problems: A failed leak detection pump can disrupt the EVAP system, resulting in performance issues. You may experience a rough idle, reduced fuel economy, or issues accelerating.

Failed emissions test: If your leak detection pump is bad, you will likely be unable to pass an emissions test. Depending on where you live, this can have legal consequences.

Keep in mind: These issues can indicate other EVAP or fuel system problems, like a faulty gas cap, bad fuel pump, or malfunctioning EVAP canister. To accurately diagnose your issue, you should visit a certified mechanic.

How often should I replace my leak detection pump?

The leak detection pump isn’t a part that typically requires regular maintenance, so there are no set replacement intervals for it. You’ll only need to replace the pump if it fails or malfunctions.

The most common sign of a faulty leak detection pump is a check engine light, but you may also experience a fuel odor or a failed emissions test.

Can I replace my leak detection pump myself?

A leak detection pump replacement can make a solid DIY project. It’s a mid-level repair job that requires basic mechanical knowledge and access to basic tools.

For experienced home mechanics, the job should be simple and straightforward. But if you’re a car repair novice or uncomfortable working with the EVAP system, you should contact a professional mechanic.

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FAQs

What happens when the leak detection pump goes bad?

If your leak detection pump goes bad, you’ll likely experience the following problems:

Increased emissions

A check engine light

A failed emissions test

Fuel odor

Reduced fuel efficiency

Performance problems

Can you drive without a leak detection pump?

While your car will most likely run without a leak detection pump, you should avoid driving without the pump whenever possible. Not only will driving without the pump result in increased emissions, but it can also lead to other EVAP system problems and poor engine performance.

Is an EVAP leak serious?

An EVAP leak can be very serious. If your car has an EVAP leak, it means that it’s releasing fuel vapors into the atmosphere. Not only is this harmful to our planet, but it can also lead to health issues for you and your passengers, as well as long-term engine and EVAP system damage.

Meet Our Experts

John Davis

Car Expert

Certified mechanic with 10+ years of experience

John Davis is an expert automotive writer and former automotive mechanic. John's work spans multiple categories, and he relishes the opportunity to research a new subject and expand his area of expertise and industry knowledge. To date, John has written more than 200 articles covering car maintenance and care, car advice, how-to guides, and more.

Prior to joining Jerry’s editorial team, John worked as a mechanic and freelance writer, creating content for clients including HotCars and SetPower.

Jessica Barrett

Car Expert

Jessica Barrett is a senior insurance writer and editor with 10 years of experience in the automotive and travel industries. A specialist in car insurance, car loans, and car ownership, Jessica’s mission is to create comprehensive content that car owners can use to manage their costs and improve their lives. As a managing editor for a team of writers and insurance specialists, Jessica has edited over 2,000 articles for Jerry on topics ranging from local insurance shopping tips to refinancing car loans with bad credit.

Before joining Jerry as a senior content editor in 2021, Jessica created visual content for clients such as Expedia, Vivid Seats, Budget Direct Car Insurance, Angie’s List, and HomeAdvisor. Her content was published in Business Insider, Forbes, Apartment Therapy, and the BBC.

Kathleen Flear

Car Expert

Kathleen Flear is an expert insurance writer and editor who heads up Jerry’s editorial team as director of content. Kathleen empowers drivers to make smart car ownership decisions through best-in-class articles on insurance, loans, and maintenance. Prior to joining Jerry in 2021, Kathleen served as managing editor for a team of SEO content marketing professionals at Article-Writing.co and worked as a freelance writer and editor for a range of digital publications, including Chicago Literati magazine and Golden Words. She earned a bachelor’s degree in English language and literature from Queen’s University, and a master’s degree in creative writing and fiction from Sierra Nevada University.

*The price information provided on our car repair webpages is intended for general informational purposes only. Actual prices for car repair services may vary based on various factors, including but not limited to the make and model of your vehicle, the extent of repair required, and the prevailing market conditions. All prices for real repair shops are estimations based on our research only. Therefore, the prices listed on our webpages should not be considered as final quotes or binding offers.