What Does the Engine Code P2402 Mean?
If your car is showing a P2402 code, your evaporative pump is drawing too much power and might need to be replaced.
Written by Samuel Todd
Reviewed by Melanie Reiff
If your car is showing a P2402 code, your car’s evaporative pump (also called a leak detection pump) is drawing too much power.
When it’s working properly, the evaporative pump prevents fuel tank vapors from going into the atmosphere. If your car’s
check engine light turns on
and you fail emissions testing, there’s probably an issue with your car’s evaporative pump.To help you deal with that pesky P2402 code,
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What does the engine code P2402 mean?
If your OBD-II scanner shows a P2402 code, it means that your evaporative pump is taking too much energy and isn’t doing its job.
Your
evaporative pump
is part of your car’s emissions control system. The goal of this system is to minimize the number of harmful pollutants, such as gasoline vapors, that escape into the air. The evaporative pump works by pressurizing the air in the fuel system, allowing the computers in the car to detect any leaks.If your evaporative pump isn’t working, your car won’t be able to check for leaks in the fuel system, and the check engine light will turn on.
How serious is the P2402 engine code?
Although you can still drive your car with a faulty evaporative pump, you run the risk of not passing emissions testing. A failed emissions test can mean urgent
car repairs
, inconvenience, and fees—so it’s crucial to take care of the problem as soon as you can.Key Takeaway: If your evaporative pump isn’t working, your car will release harmful vapors into the air, and you could fail an emissions test—so it’s best to stay on top of repairs!
What causes the P2402 engine code?
The most likely cause of a P2402 engine code is a faulty vacuum pump module. Some other causes include:
- An open or shorted harness in the vacuum pump module
- Poor electrical connection in the vacuum pump module circuit
- A faulty engine control module
When the evaporative pump starts to guzzle too much electricity, it will trigger the check engine light. This issue is pretty common in older vehicles, especially ones with higher mileage, because their evaporative pump has been worn down.
How much will it cost to fix?
Fixing a car’s emissions control system will typically set you back between $200 and $600. Of course, the exact price depends on the
make and model of your car
, the extent of the repairs, and the cost of labor at the repair shop.Sometimes, though, an emissions control system repair won’t be necessary. To make sure that your P2402 code is taken care of, and your car is running at peak performance, you should hire a mechanic to inspect your car. Most mechanics charge between $75 and $150 to diagnose your car’s problem.
Common symptoms of the P2402 engine code
The main sign of a P2402 engine code is an illuminated check engine light.
If your check engine light starts to glow and you notice a blown circuit fuse in the pump’s wiring, you’re probably facing an evaporative pump problem. Of course, the most obvious symptom will be a failed emissions test for your car, which can confirm that the issue is with your car’s evaporative pump.
Can I fix the P2402 engine code myself?
Because the evaporative pump (and the emissions control system as a whole) is made up of many carefully connected parts, it’s best to let a professional take a look at it.
What steps will a mechanic take to fix a P2402 engine code?
First, the mechanic will document the error code and check the data behind the problem. Then, the mechanic will run several tests:
- First, they’ll test the pump connector to see if it’s the cause of the electrical short.
- Second, they’ll test the pump’s resistance and specifications.
- Third, the mechanic will test the wiring between the pump and its power supply.
- Finally, the mechanic will make the appropriate repairs.
Repairs could include:
- Replacing the evaporative pump/fuse
- Replacing the evaporative pump relay
- Repairing damage in the evaporative pump connectors
Key Takeaway: A mechanic can diagnose and repair your car’s evaporative pump to solve your P2402 engine code.
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