Evaporative Canister Filter Replacement Cost Estimate
Concerned about potentially overpaying for your evaporative canister filter replacement? Utilize MyMechanic to obtain an accurate and fair cost estimate for your replacement.
✔ No spam ✔ Compare shops near you
✔ Always know how much you should pay
How much does it cost to replace an evaporative canister filter?
The exact cost to replace an evaporative canister filter will vary based on your vehicle and location. However, you can anticipate an average cost for the replacement, which includes both parts and labor.
How much does it cost to replace an evaporative canister filter
The specific duration can vary depending on the vehicle, but a certified mechanic should typically finish the service within 30 minutes to an hour.
How did we estimate these prices?
My Mechanic experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all states in Malaysia, including everything from the total cost of repair services to the hourly labor cost for mechanic labor in each shop. We combined that data with our expert database of hundreds of real repair jobs, thousands of real cars, millions of real car part prices in order to best estimate the cost of each repair service. Our labor cost estimate is calculated by taking the average hourly labor rate for a certified MyMechanic in Malaysia, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repairs
What parts do I need for my evaporative canister filter replacement?
You should refer to your car repair guide or owner’s manual for specific details about the charcoal canister. However, here's a general outline of the parts you might need:
- Evaporative canister filter:The primary part you’ll need is the new filter itself. However, it’s crucial to determine whether you can replace only the filter or if you need to replace the entire canister. This is because the canister and filter are a single unit in many cars. If you only require a filter, you should be able to find a new one at an affordable price.
- Hoses:If the hoses connected to the vapor canister filter are damaged, you'll have to replace them along with the filter.
When it comes to most automotive repairs, opting for original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts is generally recommended, particularly if you own a newer vehicle.
OEM parts are designed to fit your vehicle precisely and often come with a manufacturer's warranty, ensuring high quality. However, they can be more expensive. In contrast, aftermarket parts are more affordable and readily available but may vary in quality.
While OEM parts are often preferred, opting for aftermarket parts can save you money. Just be sure to verify the part number to ensure compatibility with your vehicle if you decide to go this route.
You can buy OEM parts from your local dealership or authorized parts supplier. You can purchase aftermarket parts from your local auto parts stores
Where can I get my evaporative canister filter replaced??
Handling auto repairs without a reliable mechanic can be quite daunting. However, you can rely on MyMechanic's to ease your frustrations by providing cost comparisons across 2,500 repair shops throughout the Malaysia.
MyMechanic compares fair price estimates* from each shop based on their actual hourly labor rates. This means you won't need to engage in fruitless searches. With MyMechanic, you gain access to crucial information such as cost estimates (with or without service costs) and authentic reviews, all aimed at helping you make informed decisions and choose the best service for your needs.
How did we vet these shops?
My Mechanic experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the Malaysia. We talked to real shop customers, and analyzed both real shop pricing data and thousands of real customer reviews from each shop to verify them individually.
How will a mechanic replace my evaporative canister filter?
Here are the typical steps your mechanic will follow when replacing your evaporative canister filter, although specifics may vary depending on your car:
- Disconnect the car battery
- Lift the vehicle off the ground
- Locate the evaporative emission control canister (on most vehicles, it’s under the car near the fuel tank, but it may be in the engine bay)
- Apply a small amount of penetrating oil to the mounting bolts
- Disconnect the electrical connectors
- Disconnect the hoses attached to the canister, which typically include three hoses: one for the canister purge valve/purge solenoid, one for the vent valve/vent solenoid, and one linking the canister to the fuel tank.
- Remove the canister’s mounting bolts and clips
- Remove the canister
- Remove the old filter from the canister if the canister and filter are separate components.
- Install the new canister filter
- Reposition the canister and install any clips and mounting hardware
- Reconnect the hoses and electrical connectors
- Lower the vehicle
- Reconnect the car battery
- Start the car to confirm that the check engine light is not present
- Turn the car off
- Start the vehicle again and take it on a 10-mile test drive
What happens if I don’t replace my evaporative canister filter?
If you have a faulty evaporative canister filter and choose not to replace it, you risk encountering the following problems:
- Increased emissions A clogged or malfunctioning canister filter can lead to higher emissions, posing environmental concerns and potential legal consequences.
- Check engine light A malfunctioning filter can disrupt fuel vapor management, resulting in decreased fuel efficiency.
- Performance issues:The EVAP system's health is linked to engine performance. A faulty filter may cause rough idling, reduced power, and starting difficulties.
- Performance issues A malfunctioning leak detection pump may manifest in performance issues such as rough idling or hesitation during acceleration. These issues can affect the overall driving experience and vehicle performance.
- Failed emissions test: A bad canister filter can cause your vehicle to fail an emissions test, which could lead to legal ramifications depending on your location.
- Damage to other components: Neglecting to replace the filter can lead to further EVAP system problems, such as leaks, and potentially cause long-term engine damage.
What is an evaporative canister filter?
The evaporative canister filter, also referred to as the EVAP filter or vapor canister filter, plays a crucial role in your vehicle's evaporative emission control (EVAP) system. It is designed to capture and process excess gasoline vapors from the fuel tank, converting them into hydrocarbons and carbon dioxide.
Once the fuel vapors undergo this conversion process, the hydrocarbons are reintroduced into the fuel system through the EVAP purge solenoid. These hydrocarbons are subsequently burned during the combustion process. Meanwhile, the carbon dioxide travels through the EVAP vent solenoid and is released into the external atmosphere.
The engine control module (ECM) oversees the EVAP system and regulates the opening of the vent and purge solenoids. This system aims to minimize the emission of harmful pollutants from your vehicle and enhance the engine's performance and efficiency.
When should I replace the evaporative canister filter on my car?
There is typically no specific replacement schedule for evaporative canister filters provided by manufacturers. Replacement is generally necessary only when the filter becomes clogged with debris or experiences a malfunction.
These are the most common symptoms of a faulty evaporative canister filter:
- Check engine light (CEL): One significant indication of a problematic EVAP filter is the activation of the check engine light (CEL). However, it's crucial to note that this light can illuminate due to various factors. To pinpoint the exact issue, you'll need to utilize an onboard diagnostics (OBD) scan tool to retrieve the specific trouble code.
- Strong fuel smell: If the canister filter fails and can no longer trap excess fuel vapors, you might notice a strong fuel odor in and around your car.
- Failed emissions test:If your EVAP filter is obstructed, you may fail an emissions test, indicating that your vehicle is releasing higher levels of hydrocarbons than acceptable. This is detrimental to both your health and the environment. Additionally, in some regions, you might be prohibited from driving your vehicle until the problem is resolved.
- Failed emissions testIf your leak detection pump is faulty, you may not pass an emissions test. This could lead to legal ramifications, depending on your location.
- Performance issues: A defective canister filter can impact your car’s management of fuel vapors, leading to various problems such as decreased fuel efficiency, starting difficulties, and an erratic idle.
- Leaking or collapsed fuel tank In severe instances, a complete EVAP system failure can cause the fuel tank to collapse. If you hear a noticeable whooshing sound while removing your gas cap, it could signal issues with the proper venting of vapors.
- Keep in mind that these symptoms can also point to other general issues, such as a clogged air filter, a malfunctioning fuel pump, a damaged intake manifold, or faulty spark plugs. They may also be indicative of other EVAP system problems, such as a malfunctioning control valve.
How often should I replace my evaporative canister filter?
There's no set timeframe for replacing evaporative canister filters across all vehicles, although some manufacturers may specify this in the owner's manual. Instead, watch for signs like a noticeable fuel odor or an illuminated check engine light, which can indicate a need for evaporative canister filter replacement.
Can I replace my evaporative canister filter myself?
Replacing the evaporative canister filter is usually considered a mid-level task. It requires a moderate level of automotive knowledge and basic tools. While experienced home mechanics may find it manageable as a DIY project, beginners might find it challenging.
If you're confident in your mechanical skills and have the necessary tools, you can likely handle the replacement yourself. However, if you're not comfortable working on fuel and emissions systems, it's best to leave this task to a professional.
FAQs
There are a few indicators that you need a new EVAP canister, including:
- A check engine light
- A failed emissions test
- A strong fuel odor
- Poor engine performance
- Difficulty starting the engine
Generally, you can’t clean an EVAP canister. Instead, you’ll have to replace it if yours fails. That’s because over time, the canister becomes saturated with hydrocarbons and other contaminants.
It's advisable to avoid driving with a malfunctioning EVAP canister whenever possible. Although it's rare for a faulty canister to cause mechanical breakdowns, it can lead to higher emissions, posing environmental concerns and risking engine wear over time. Moreover, a bad canister filter might permit fuel vapors to seep into the vehicle, potentially impacting the health of occupants.
