P0442 on Infiniti: How to Diagnose & Fix
Evaporative Emission Control System Leak Detected (Small Leak)
2 Infiniti models · 2 documented issues · 1 critical · $40-$450 repair
P0442 on Infiniti by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
Owners occasionally report check-engine lights caused by EVAP system leaks, often related to the gas cap, purge control valve, vent valve, or associated hoses. These faults usually do not affect drivability much, but they can prevent emissions readiness and trigger recurring warning lights.
Common Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Loose or worn gas cap
- Failed emissions inspection
- Occasional fuel vapor smell
- No major drivability change
How to Fix
Diagnosis starts with reading EVAP-related codes, inspecting the fuel cap seal, and smoke-testing the EVAP system for leaks. Repairs may be as simple as replacing the gas cap or may require a purge/vent solenoid and hose replacement; typical cost runs from about $40 to $450 depending on the fault.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Genuine Infiniti early-production fuel filler capOEMInfiniti 17251-1NC0B
The 2010-2011 overlap with 4BA0B reflects production/supersession changes; confirm VIN and cap/filler-neck configuration rather than choosing
- Genuine Infiniti current-production fuel filler capOEMInfiniti 17251-4BA0B
Confirm VIN/build because 2010-2011 overlaps the earlier 1NC0B branch.
- Genuine Infiniti VK50VE EVAP purge-control valveOEMInfiniti 14930-JA10D
It is not the canister vent valve; confirm VIN and connector.
- Genuine Infiniti EVAP canister vent-control valveOEMInfiniti 14935-JF02C
vent-valve branch after P0447 circuit and smoke/command testing proves the valve failed Fitment/availability: Infiniti 14935-JF02C supersedes the JF00A-E family and is cataloged for the 2009-2013 FX50 EVAP vent position. Test wiring and …
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Owner tips & cautions
- TipDo a smoke test before replacing multiple EVAP parts; small hose leaks are easy to miss visually.
- TipClear the code only after tightening or replacing the cap and completing a few drive cycles.
The rubber fuel filler hose that runs from the filler neck to the tank can crack with age and exposure, letting raw fuel escape during refueling. Because the leak occurs at the pump with the nozzle running, any ignition source nearby creates a fire risk. NHTSA campaign 05V555000 covers the defect across a group of Nissan and Infiniti passenger cars and SUVs; the Infiniti portion of the recall began March 13, 2006.
Common Symptoms
- Strong fuel smell while refueling
- Fuel visible on the ground during fill-up
- Fuel pump nozzle clicks off repeatedly before the tank is full
- Fuel stains on the underbody near the filler neck
- Check engine light with EVAP leak codes
How to Fix
Have the dealer replace the fuel filler hose under recall 05V555000, free of charge. Independent of the recall, a strong fuel smell during or right after refueling, fuel visible on the ground behind the right rear wheel while filling, or a pump that repeatedly clicks off before the tank is full all point to the filler hose or the vent hose alongside it. Do not keep refueling a car that leaks at the pump. A persistent fuel odor with no visible leak and an EVAP code is a different fault — usually the vent or purge valve — so confirm which one you have before ordering parts.
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Sources for this issue (1)
P0442 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0442 mean on a Infiniti?
P0442 stands for "Evaporative Emission Control System Leak Detected (Small Leak)." This emissions code means the evaporative emission (EVAP) control system has detected a small leak. The EVAP system seals the fuel tank and captures gasoline vapors, routing them to be burned in the engine instead of escaping into the air, and the computer periodically pressure- or vacuum-tests the system to confirm it's sealed. A small leak the size of about a 0.040-inch hole will set this code. By far the most common and cheapest cause is a loose, damaged, or missing gas cap, so that's the first thing to check, though any cracked hose or worn seal in the system can also trigger it. On Infiniti it is documented across 2 models: FX50, G35.
What are the most common causes of P0442?
The most common causes of P0442 are: Loose, damaged, or missing fuel filler cap, Worn or cracked gas cap seal, Cracked or disconnected EVAP hose or line, Faulty purge valve or vent valve, Damaged O-ring or seal at the fuel tank or filler neck, Small crack in the charcoal canister, Leaking fuel tank sending unit gasket. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0442 on a Infiniti?
Published repair estimates on Infiniti range from $40 to $450 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
Looking for P0442 on a different make?
View P0442 across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.