P0453 Code: Meaning, Symptoms, Causes, and How To Fix It

Every vehicle contains a computer that triggers a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) when it monitors an issue with any parts of the engine. These codes can be read by the OBD-II scanner. The P0453 code triggers when the pressure in the evaporation pressure sensor is higher than the required value. This article mainly explains the P0453 code meaning, causes, and symptoms.

P0453 Code Definition

The P0453 code stands for “Evaporative Emission System Pressure Sensor/Switch High.”

What does the P0453 Code Mean?

P0453 is a diagnostic trouble code that indicates that the evaporation (EVAP) pressure sensor is reporting higher pressure than usual.

The EVAP pressure sensor, also known as the FTP (Fuel Tank Pressure) sensor, is located inside the fuel tank. The main function of this sensor is to calculate the internal pressure of the fuel tank.

P0453 code indicates a problem with your evaporative emission system. It notifies you that the data the PCM received from the EVAP pressure sensor is too high and exceeds the permitted limits.

Function of Evaporative Emission Control System

The function of the evaporation (EVAP) system is to avert the fuel vapors from going into the environment. The hose directs the fuel vapors toward the charcoal canister. This charcoal canister consists of some fibrous material.

The engine vacuum is passed through the canister to purge solenoids to move air into the canister. The trapped fuel vapors in the intake manifold are now pushed towards the combustion chamber as part of the fuel-air mixture.

The minor number of vapors can have a substantial effect when the PCM calculates the fuel vapor mix. The specific time when the canister purge does not occur is known as “Purge free cells.”

With the development of the OBD2 advanced EVAP system, the canister purge valve may now work in idle conditions as well. Previously, this valve only worked if your car was operating above idle.

If you overfill your fuel system when surprising volumes of heavy vapor or liquid are supplied to the intake, then you may get some liquid fuel in the canister. This results in an unexpected lurch and surge at idle.

Symptoms of P0453 Code

Usually, the check engine light illumination is the only symptom of the P0453 code. Sometimes the fuel odor from the vapors can also be a symptom of P0453, but only in certain circumstances. So, the smell of the fuel fumes with the code P0453 makes it easier to troubleshoot and determine the source of the problem.

Causes of P0453 Code

There are several causes that can result in the high voltage signal from the FTP sensor. Some of the common causes of the P0453 code are as follows:

FTP sensor circuit malfunctions
Fault in fuel tank pressure sensor
A problem with the powertrain control module
Damaged or faulty charcoal canister
Faulty gas cap
An issue with the vacuum hose
Leaked or damaged fuel tank
A faulty carbon canister vent valve

How to diagnose the P0453 Code?

To diagnose the P0453 error code, follow the below-given steps:

Check for stored trouble codes using an OBDI-II scanning tool. Clear the codes and perform a test drive. If the P0453 code returns, move forward for further inspection.
Use a scan tool to check the fuel tank pressure readings. Average voltages are about 2.5 volts and should never go beyond 4.5 volts. A reading of about 2.7 volts with the gas cap off might be due to an anomaly.
For the wiggle-testing wiring at the FTP sensor, use an ohmmeter or volt digital meter to calculate the voltage present at the signal Any variation in the voltage while wiggle-testing shows that the issue is with the connectors, like poor wiring connections, broken wires, dampness, and corrosion.
If the voltage in the scanner is more than 4.5 volts, disconnect the sensor and check the voltage again. If the readings are still high, check the wiring harnesses to see if they’re short. As you disconnect the sensor and the high voltage reading disappears, then inspect the sensor and make sure the required voltage is fed to the sensor for its proper functionality.
If the sensor is properly grounded and referenced to 5V, the sensor itself may be defective and should be replaced with a new one.
Connect the vacuum gauge to the wiring harness and test the pressure sensor. Observe the display of the sensor and see if you see any change in data here.
If the values remain high after replacing the sensor, there may be an issue with your powertrain control module (PCM). A faulty PCM is extremely unlikely, and replacing and reprogramming it may be costly.
Evaluate all the connections and wiring of the EVAP system visually by yourself.

Common Diagnostic Mistake of P0453 Engine Code

When diagnosing the code P0453, the following are frequent errors that you should avoid:

To check the resistance of the fuel tank pressure sensor instead of its voltage
To replace the new part without checking them. Sometimes the new parts can be defective.
Assuming that DTC is stored in the system while there is no code.
Forget to check the whole FTP sensor circuit.

P0453 Code Repair Cost

The labor and diagnostic costs for the P0453 code vary from $120 to $170. However, this cost highly depends on the labor cost and the relevant faulty part.

The average estimated costs for parts are given below:

Gas cap replacement: $20 to $80
EVAP system pressure sensor replacement: $260 to $340
EVAP line repair: $20 to $120

FAQ Section

How serious is the P0453 code?

The P0453 code is not a serious code. It generally doesn’t affect your car’s performance. But this code may be a symptom of a severe problem with your car exhaust system.

Can you drive with the P0453 Code?

A faulty component is not controlling critical processes, so driving the vehicle with the P0453 code shouldn’t be difficult. But a faulty FTP sensor cannot alert your PCM about potential leaks in your evaporative system. Therefore, it is recommended that this issue be rectified as soon as possible.

What repairs can fix the P0453 code?

Replacing or repairing the damaged wires
Repair or replacement of the open voltage signal wire
Repairing and replacing the EVAP pressure sensor
Repairing the connections
Inspecting and repairing the FTP sensor
Replacing the damaged component
Replacing the faulty PCM