QuestionThe last 8 times I've gotten gas I've had to press the gas petal for my car
to start. I'm always up on oil changes never ran out of gas. My check
engine light has came on 3 times now in less than a month and the last
two they said it was my gas cap, the first time I said ok but the last time it
can't be that. I'm freaking out because I am not rich and can't spend
money every time for someone to tell me it's the gas cap. Any advise u
can give me will truly be helpful thank u
AnswerThe fact that you're having trouble starting the car after refueling suggests that your purge control valve is stuck open, allowing the engine to become flooded with fuel vapors during fueling. Similarly, this problem can cause the check engine lamp to come on.
Oddly enough, the last 2006 Accent I worked on with this problem had a P0442 diagnostic trouble code, which indicates a fuel vapor leak. Knowing how the evaporative emissions system on this vehicle tests itself, I found this very odd (and, since I had no report of a starting issue after refueling, it actually took me several attempts to fix this car).
If your car is still within the warranty period (5 years/60,000 miles), I'd recommend taking it to the dealer for warranty repair. If you've already been taking it there for this issue, it'd be a reasonable request on your part for them to check the purge valve and,when they find it stuck open, to issue a refund for any money you've spent for them to unsuccessfully find the problem.
If your car is not within the warranty period, either purchase a purge control valve and replace it yourself, or take your car to a shop and request they change the valve. If they'd like to know why, show them this exchange.
