How to Replace a 2002 Toyota Camry Charcoal Canister

The 2002 Toyota Camry uses an evaporative emissions control system (EVAP) to catch fuel vapor and reroute them to the engine when it is running. The vapors are collected in a charcoal canister. The vapors are transferred by way of an electronic purge control valve, which is controlled by the electronic control module. The EVAP also uses a vapor-pressure sensor that is part of the fuel pump assembly that senses pressure in the fuel tank and works with the purge-control valve to cycle the canister's vapor collection and rerouting process.

Things You'll Need

  • Jack
  • Jack stands
  • Pliers
  • Wrench set
  • Park the Camry on a level, paved surface and set the parking brake. Relieve fuel-system pressure by removing the relay marked "C/OPN" located in the fuse-relay panel in the engine compartment. Start the engine and let it run until it dies. Disconnect the negative battery cable.

  • Raise the rear of the Camry with a jack and support it with jack stands.

  • Find the charcoal canister. It is above the rear cross member, in front of the fuel tank. Remove the hoses by using pliers to compress the clamp on each hose and sliding the clamp back on the hose past the end of the canister's hose fitting. Remove the hoses. Be sure to note the location of each hose so you put them back on correctly.

  • Remove the bolt that holds the canister to the cross member with a wrench.

  • Mount and bolt the new canister. Replace the hoses. Replace the C/OPN relay. Reattach the negative battery cable.