Hyundai Repair: Elantra starting trouble, hyundai elantra, fuel vapors

Question
QUESTION: I got a very interesting issue with my Hyundai elantra. For the past two winters, the check engine light comes on. When I got the code read, it turned out to be 441. Although the problem went away last year by just replacing the fuel cap bit it came back this year. Every time when I do a full tank now, the car will not start immediately and my heart stops beating. Eventually it does start and works well after driving few miles. What it could be?? Also the problem is not existant when weather gets warmer. Thanks and your response is much appreciated.

ANSWER: Your purge control valve is stuck open.  The trouble code and symptom support this diagnosis.

P0441 indicates the ECM thinks the purge control valve is stuck open.  It detemines this by monitoring intake vacuum.  If the vacuum hose between the intake and purge valve is connected and intact, then the issue is pretty much limited to the purge control valve.

If the purge control valve is stuck open, it provides a pathway for fuel vapors between the fuel tank and the intake manifold.  When fueling, the increasing fuel level in the tank forces the vapors into the intake, creating a flooding condition in the engine, making it hard to start and run poorly for a short time after starting.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: What should I do? I am afraid if I take it to the dealer, I am going to be charge heavily. If I decide to take it to a local mechanic, should I just tell him your comments. In short, how should I approach fixing this issue? Also, why does the problem don't surface when it gets warmer. Even the Check Engine light goes off in warm weather.

Answer
It's hard to say why the issue isn't more prominent in cold weather.  Most likely is that the cold weather could be affecting the valve, creating a situation where it's more likely to malfunction.  

I'm confident enough in my diagnosis on this issue that you should be able to simply replace the valve (and clear the check engine lamp) without further diagnosis.  Your options are to purchase a valve and replace it yourself or to pay a shop (dealer or otherwise) to do it.  If taking to a shop, give them all the symptoms as well as the diagnostic trouble code you've retrieved from the ECM-- they'll be primarily interested in these.  If you'd like, you can print out what I've written and take it along or just mention to them the information I've given you.  Either way, respect that they have the car to inspect and I don't.  I cannot perform tests on your car.  They can.