Codes › P0443

P0443: The EVAP purge valve has a circuit fault

Evaporative Emission Control System Purge Control Valve Circuit Malfunction

Low severityCan you keep driving?

Yes. This is an electrical fault in an emissions component. The car runs normally. You will fail an emissions test until it is repaired.

What it means

P0443 means the engine computer cannot properly control the EVAP purge valve through its electrical circuit. Unlike P0441, which is about how much vapor flows, P0443 is about the electrical side: the solenoid that opens and closes the valve is not responding correctly. The computer expects a certain voltage or resistance on the circuit when it commands the valve. If it sees an open circuit, a short, or no response at all, it sets P0443. The fix is usually the valve itself or its wiring, not anything deep in the engine.

Common causes

  1. Faulty EVAP purge valve solenoidThe internal solenoid coil fails open or shorted. This is the most common cause.
  2. Open circuit in wiring to the purge valveA broken wire or corroded connector between the PCM and the valve.
  3. Short to ground or to voltage in the circuitChafed wiring touching ground or another circuit triggers the fault.
  4. Failed PCM output driverRare. Only suspect this if the valve and wiring both test clean.

What it costs

Symptoms

What to do next

Use a multimeter to check the resistance across the purge valve solenoid terminals. Most valves measure 15 to 30 ohms when healthy; check your service manual for the spec. If it reads open or short, replace the valve. If the valve tests fine, check the wiring from the valve back to the PCM connector for continuity and shorts.

Lewis shows the commanded state of the purge valve circuit so you can verify whether the PCM is trying to actuate it and it is failing, or whether the PCM is not commanding it at all. Download Lewis.

Related codes

FAQ

Can P0443 cause a rough idle like P0441 can?
Less likely. P0443 is an electrical fault. If the valve is stuck, it could affect idle, but the immediate issue is the circuit, not the flow.
How much does the purge valve cost?
The part is typically $20 to $80. Labor is minimal since it is usually accessible. Total cost including labor runs $60 to $200.
Will the code come back if I just clear it?
Yes. The computer runs an EVAP self-test on every drive cycle. If the electrical fault is still there, the code will return within one or two drive cycles.