Cel - p0442

[bob21]

Hi:

I got a CEL on my 2001 boxster - code P0442 as read by pepboys. The guy said most of the time its a loose gas cap. I tightened the gas cap but the CEL does not go away. Is it dangerous to drive on with this error?

The CEL is not flashing and the engine runs great. I just spent $$$ on some other repairs and would like to postpone the expense for CEL as long as possible. But I do not want to damage the engine. Any thoughts?

[Jager]

Inspect the seal on the gas cap, does it have cracks?

Picture of bad gas cap seal:

[bob21]

Thanks. I think its old and cracked, can pep boys fix that? or do I need to take it to my indy mechanic - who likes to charge $500 for diagonistic time for any CEL.

[Jager]

Just buy a new OEM cap, they're not that expensive.

[Jager]

Replacement Gas Cap:Porsche Parts & Porsche Accessories - Wholesale Porsche Parts & Tequipment - Cayman Panamera Cayenn

[bob21]

Thanks for the link. I will order the cap. Is it dangerous to drive the car till I fix it? What if its something else?

[Jager]

Looks like you have a vacuum leak somewhere in the fuel vapor system. I wouldn't be afraid to drive it but don't go too long, keep in-mind you could pick-up another P-Code and not know it.