Subaru 1998 Outback P0440 EVAP question

[JpMaxMan]

Greetings! I am looking to buy a used Subaru Outback 1998 that has
the check engine light on w/ the message P0440 EVAP. In searching
this group, I found that a possible solution can be that the gas cap
just needs to be replaced as the seal may be leaking. In addition, it
seems it can be a small leak anywhere in the system which could be a
real pain in the ass and $$ to fix.

My simple question is, if it is the gas cap, will putting a new gas
cap on cause the light to automatically turn off? Or, does it need to
be reset by the dealer and then we wait to see if it comes back on?

 

[Carl 1 Lucky Texan]

Greetings! I am looking to buy a used Subaru Outback 1998 that has
the check engine light on w/ the message P0440 EVAP. In searching
this group, I found that a possible solution can be that the gas cap
just needs to be replaced as the seal may be leaking. In addition, it
seems it can be a small leak anywhere in the system which could be a
real pain in the ass and $$ to fix.

My simple question is, if it is the gas cap, will putting a new gas
cap on cause the light to automatically turn off? Or, does it need to
be reset by the dealer and then we wait to see if it comes back on?

If that is where the problem is - the system will need several 'drive
cycles' but will eventually turn off. Use of a 'scanner' by you, a
friendly mechanic, dealer or Autozone can clear it immediately.


Carl

 

[AS]

What about the recent thread on this same issue where the rotten through
filler neck was the issue? Keep an eye on this one.