Melanie Reiff
Updated on Nov 16, 2022
If your car’s canister purge solenoid does not open or close properly and causes issues with the engine, a mechanic can replace it. You will need this maintenance service if your car’s check engine light comes on, you have problems starting the engine, or the engine feels rough.
A smooth-running engine is key to keeping you safe on the road. Here, the car insurance super app Jerry explains what you need to know about a canister purge solenoid replacement.
The exact cost varies between different Best models. For example, newer vehicle models are usually made with more expensive materials, so recent or high-end models will cost more, especially if your service requires a part replacement. Use the table below to estimate the cost for your own vehicle.
CarTotal Cost EstimateParts CostLabor CostAverage Dealer PriceEstimated Service Duration
2016
$202.19$83.93$118.26$227.371h
2019
$202.19$83.93$118.26$227.371h

What is a canister purge solenoid replacement?

A mechanic will inspect the Evaporative Emission Control (EVAP) system in your car’s engine compartment and replace the canister purge solenoid, or purge valve, if it is not opening or closing correctly.
The canister purge solenoid helps direct the flow of fuel vapor. The vapor travels from a charcoal canister to the engine, where it is burned during the engine’s combustion process.
Your canister purge solenoid opens when the engine is running and closes when the engine is off. When the purge valve stops working efficiently, your engine may begin to experience various issues and stop running smoothly.

How to replace a canister purge solenoid

To perform a canister purge solenoid replacement, a mechanic will complete the following steps:
  • Lift the hood to inspect the engine compartment. This is located near the throttle body or on top of the charcoal canister in older models.
  • Disconnect the fuel vapor lines, vacuum, and electrical connector
  • Detach and remove the faulty canister purge solenoid from the engine compartment
  • Install and connect a new canister purge solenoid
  • Start the engine and check for any fuel vapor or vacuum leaks
Once everything looks back to normal, the mechanic will clear any engine codes sent by your car’s computer and restart the vehicle to make sure they don’t reappear.

When do I need a canister purge solenoid replacement?

If you notice your car’s engine is idling roughly or see that the check engine light has come on, you should take your car to a mechanic for a diagnostic inspection.
Common symptoms of a faulty canister purge solenoid are the check engine light turning on, rough idling of the engine, trouble starting the engine after refilling the gas tank.
Not replacing the canister purge solenoid will not cause serious damage to your car, but you may have to deal with rough idling, trouble starting the engine, and failing an emissions test.

How to find affordable auto insurance

Routine maintenance can prevent physical issues from occurring with your car, but you’ll need the right car insurance policy to keep your vehicle protected financially. Jerry makes it easy to find the best coverage for the best rates.
Just complete a 45-second sign-up and you’ll get access to competitive quotes from up to 50 companies. If you find one you like, Jerry will get you signed up right away and even help you cancel your old policy.
Jerry’s specialty is helping customers save as much as possible. Jerry users save an average of $887 per year on car insurance!
Keep in mind that your location is another factor that determines the final cost of repairs. Areas with higher cost of living will usually have more expensive car repair services, especially if there’s less local competition. Check out the table below for an estimate of what Best drivers pay in different cities.
CityCarTotal Cost EstimateParts CostLabor CostAverage Dealer PriceEstimated Service Duration
2016
$200.18$83.93$116.25$225.361h
2019
$194.17$83.93$110.24$219.351h
2016
$187.49$83.93$103.56$212.671h
2019
$199.11$83.93$115.18$224.291h
2016
$211.13$83.93$127.2$236.311h
2019
$201.65$83.93$117.72$226.831h
Great Falls
VA
2016
$208.19$83.93$124.26$233.371h
Oxford
FL
2019
$192.17$83.93$108.24$217.351h
2016
$207.34$83.93$123.41$232.521h
2019
$219.05$83.93$135.12$244.231h
Jerry doesn’t just offer fair price repair estimates for Best drivers! Our team of writers has collected everything you need to know for every car. Here’s how much the repair costs for some popular cars:
CarTotal Cost EstimateParts CostLabor CostAverage Dealer PriceEstimated Service Duration
1987
$342.17$224.17$118$409.421h
2014
$158.61$40.61$118$170.791h
2015
$230.8$112.8$118$264.641h
1968
$151.58$33.58$118$161.651h
1997
$173.72$55.72$118$190.431h
2005
$153.44$35.44$118$164.071h
The cost of repairs might vary depending on which Best you drive, but there’s an easy way to save money for the services you need! Just download the Jerry app for help lowering your insurance premiums. In less than 45 seconds, Jerry collects all of your information from your existing insurer. Choose from competitive quotes from top insurance companies and Jerry takes care of the rest—securing your new policy and helping you cancel your old one upon request.
With an average annual savings of $887, Jerry can help you free up funds for the repairs your Best’s needs.
The content contained in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be used in lieu of seeking professional advice. We encourage you to consult with a certified technician or mechanic if you have specific questions or concerns relating to any of the topics covered herein. Under no circumstances will we be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on any content.