P0496 on Honda: How to Diagnose & Fix
Evaporative Emission System High Purge Flow
2 Honda models · 2 documented issues · $30-$250 repair
P0496 on Honda by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The EVAP canister purge control solenoid on the intake manifold sticks open, throwing evaporative-system codes — commonly P0496 (EVAP flow during a non-purge condition), P0441 (incorrect purge flow), or a large-leak P0455 — and causing rough idle, hard/rough starts right after refueling, and a faint fuel smell. A worn or non-OEM gas cap is the first thing to rule out for P0455; if a genuine cap doesn't clear it, the purge valve is the usual culprit. The under-car vent solenoid at the charcoal canister is a secondary leak source from corrosion.
Common Symptoms
- Check engine light P0496, P0441, P0443 or P0455
- Rough or hard start after refueling
- Rough idle or slight hesitation
- Faint fuel odor
- Failed emissions test
How to Fix
Confirm the gas cap seals (replace with a genuine Honda cap if in doubt). If codes persist, replace the canister purge control solenoid valve — verified OEM part numbers for 2008-2012 are 36162-R41-L01 / 36162-RRA-A01 (four-cylinder) and 36162-RMX-A01 (V6). It bolts to the intake with a couple of screws and a connector. For P0455/vent-side codes also inspect the under-car EVAP vent solenoid and lines for corrosion.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Honda 36162-RRA-A01 purge control solenoidOEMHonda 36162-RRA-A01
Replace a tested-stuck engine-bay purge valve on the matching early L4 branch Fitment/availability: 2008-2012 Accord 2.4L L4 configurations cataloged for KA 5AT/5MT and KL 5MT. Do not use for the California/KL automatic branch, V6 or nin…
- Honda 36162-R41-L01 purge control solenoidOEMHonda 36162-R41-L01
Confirm VIN, emissions label and connector; not the federal/manual part and not for V6.
- Honda 36162-RMX-A01 purge control solenoidOEMHonda 36162-RMX-A01
Replace a tested-stuck engine-bay purge valve on the early V6 branch Fitment/availability: 2008-2012 Accord 3.5L V6 only after confirming VIN/body/transmission fitment.
- Honda 36162-5A3-A01 purge control solenoidOEMHonda 36162-5A3-A01
Do not use for 6MT or V6; confirm VIN and emissions configuration.
- Honda 36162-5A2-A01 purge control solenoidOEMHonda 36162-5A2-A01
Replace a tested-stuck purge valve on the ninth-generation L4 manual branch Fitment/availability: 2013-2015 Accord 2.4L L4 with 6-speed manual transmission only. The catalog page contains both L4 valves; select exact SKU 36162-5A2-A01.
- Honda 36162-5G0-A01 purge control solenoidOEMHonda 36162-5G0-A01
Replace a tested-stuck purge valve on the ninth-generation V6 branch Fitment/availability: 2013-2015 Accord 3.5L V6 only; confirm body, transmission and VIN.
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Sources for this issue (1)
The EVAP canister purge valve sticks open and allows fuel vapors to flow into the intake when they shouldn't. On 3rd-gen Pilots this commonly sets P0496 (EVAP high/incorrect purge flow), and can accompany P0455/P0441; drivers notice a check engine light, rough idle, and pronounced difficulty starting the engine immediately after filling up (flooded intake). The canonical OEM purge valve for these years is 36162-5G0-A01.
Common Symptoms
- Check engine light with P0496 (also P0455/P0441)
- Very hard start right after refueling
- Rough idle
- Gas cap / emissions warning message
- Occasional stall at idle
How to Fix
Test the purge valve unpowered: if you can blow air through it, it is stuck open and must be replaced. Replace with OEM purge valve 36162-5G0-A01 (a ~15-minute DIY with a 10mm socket). Confirm the gas cap and EVAP lines seal properly and clear codes; verify no lingering large/small-leak codes remain.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Genuine Honda 36162-5G0-A01 purge control valveOEMHonda 36162-5G0-A01
Honda Pilot 3.5L, all listed 2WD/AWD and 6AT/9AT configurations; do not use this older part for the 2019-2022 bulletin repair.
- Genuine Honda 36162-5G0-A02 updated purge control solenoid valveOEMHonda 36162-5G0-A02
Honda bulletin 23-091 corrective branch after P0441 diagnosis confirms intermittent purge-valve sticking Fitment/availability: 2019-2022 U.S.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
Sources for this issue (2)
P0496 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 P0496 mean on a Honda?
P0496 stands for "Evaporative Emission System High Purge Flow." P0496 means the evaporative emission (EVAP) system detected high purge flow — fuel vapor is flowing into the engine when it shouldn't, typically because the purge valve is stuck or leaking open. The EVAP system captures fuel vapors in a charcoal canister and meters them into the intake through the purge valve at the correct times; unexpected vapor flow can create a vacuum in the tank and disturb fueling. Symptoms can include rough or stalling idle (especially after refueling), hard starting, or a fuel tank vacuum noise when the cap is removed. On Honda it is documented across 2 models: Accord, Pilot.
What are the most common causes of P0496?
The most common causes of P0496 are: Stuck-open or leaking EVAP purge valve/solenoid, Faulty purge valve electrical control or wiring, Damaged or disconnected purge vacuum hose, Faulty vent valve allowing improper flow, Failed fuel tank pressure sensor, Cracked or pinched EVAP lines, Carbon canister saturation or failure. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0496 on a Honda?
Published repair estimates on Honda range from $30 to $250 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 P0496 on a different make?
View P0496 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.