Mitsubishi Repair: Mitsubishi Eclipse Emissions Filter?, regional sales rep, emissions test

Question
Hello,
My Service Engine Soon light came on immediately before I failed an emissions test and received code P0455 (Evaporative Emission System Leak Detected).  I brought it to the dealer who ran a smoke test and found a leak from the evap solenoid.  They said I need a $142 part - MR 552720 (which online is listed only as an emissions filter). Local parts stores have no idea what this is.  My brother is a regional sales rep for NAPA and he called a half dozen Mitsubishi dealers near him and not a single one has ever actually seen the part and said it's unlikely i need a new one at only 40,000 miles.  And he said it's unlikely this is what I need since my Service Engine Soon light has not come back on.  What is this part and is it possible that I don't actually need it and can now pass the emissions test? Thanks!  

Answer
Melissa: You got an AutoZone close to you? If so take the car into it and have them coded the computer. If you still have the problem the computer will show it on a coding. There is such a thing on your car, as the cars now days are run by a computer and a large group of sensors through out the engine. Most of these sensors can not bought at a parts store but have to be done at a dealership. I have no idea what your car is or the year. But with 40,000 miles on it; it can not be that old. Still I would have it fixed, because though the light has gone off it will come back on again someplace down the road. And though that part sounds like a lot of money it would be worth it to pass the emission test. Also with these newer cars, if you let something go it will with time will or could mess with other sensors in your engine. And the engine will start to run poorly therefore using more fuel. And in this day and time that is not good with the fuel being so costly. But then again take the car to another shop if not an AutoZone(these guys will test your car for free) have the car tested and see what the computer kicks out on a print out. If you want to check to see if the dealership is being honest with you. God bless: Linda