P0443: Evaporative Emission System Purge Control Valve Circuit
Updated November 12, 2026
The engine computer switches the EVAP purge valve on and off electrically to draw stored fuel vapors from the charcoal canister into the engine. P0443 means it detected an electrical problem in that valve's circuit, such as an open or a short.
COMPZA may earn a commission when you buy through links on this page, at no extra cost to you. How we make money.
🔧 Want to check this yourself? An OBD2 scanner reads the code; models with live data also show the sensor readings used in the checks below. See code readers and scanners from $24.99 ↓ · Which scanner do I need?
Common causes
- A failed purge valve (purge solenoid) coil
- A broken or chafed wire, or a loose or corroded connector at the valve
- A blown fuse or a problem in the valve's power supply
- A fault in the engine computer's valve driver (less common)
Code meanings can vary slightly by manufacturer. Use these as a starting point and confirm with your vehicle's service information or a mechanic before replacing parts.
Symptoms
- Check engine light
- Usually no change in how the car drives
- Failed emissions inspection
Is it safe to drive?
Usually safe to drive with a steady light, but get it fixed to pass inspection.
How to check it with a scanner
- Plug an OBD2 scanner into the port under the dashboard and read all stored codes and the freeze-frame data (the conditions when the code set).
- With the key off, find the purge valve (usually on or near the intake manifold) and check that the connector is fully seated and free of corrosion.
- Check the fuse that feeds the purge valve.
- Unplug the valve and measure its coil resistance with a multimeter; compare with your vehicle's spec.
- If your scanner can command the purge valve, listen or feel for it clicking. If the engine needs to run for the test, keep hands clear of the belts and fan.
- After a repair, clear the code and drive normally for a few days to confirm it doesn't come back.
A basic code reader shows the code; scanners with live data let you watch sensor readings, which is what you need for most of the checks above. See OBD2 scanners under $100.
Code readers and scanners in stock
From partner stores' live product feeds. Check that the tool covers your vehicle's make, model and year on the retailer's page before you buy.
LAUNCH CR319 OBD2 Code Reader & Emissions Readiness Tester$24.99at LAUNCH X431 Online 
LAUNCH CR529 OBD2 Code Reader with Live Data Stream$45at LAUNCH X431 Online 
Autel MaxiLink ML529$52at AUTELOnline 
AutoLink AL319$59at AUTELOnline 
MaxiAP AP2500E$60at AUTELOnline 
LAUNCH Creader VII+ Code Reader for Engine, ABS, SRS & Transmission$119at LAUNCH X431 Online Affiliate links. AUTELOnline prices updated Nov 14, 8:02 PM EST · LAUNCH X431 Online prices updated Nov 14, 10:01 PM EST.
Search eBay for your vehicle
Affiliate links: COMPZA may earn a commission from qualifying eBay purchases at no extra cost to you. Add your vehicle in eBay's parts finder to see parts that fit.
Questions
What does P0443 mean?
P0443 is the generic OBD2 code for "Evaporative Emission System Purge Control Valve Circuit." The engine computer switches the EVAP purge valve on and off electrically to draw stored fuel vapors from the charcoal canister into the engine. P0443 means it detected an electrical problem in that valve's circuit, such as an open or a short.
Is it safe to drive with P0443?
Usually safe to drive with a steady light, but get it fixed to pass inspection.
How do I check P0443 myself?
Read the code and freeze-frame data with an OBD2 scanner, then: With the key off, find the purge valve (usually on or near the intake manifold) and check that the connector is fully seated and free of corrosion. Check the fuse that feeds the purge valve. Unplug the valve and measure its coil resistance with a multimeter; compare with your vehicle's spec. If your scanner can command the purge valve, listen or feel for it clicking. If the engine needs to run for the test, keep hands clear of the belts and fan.
Related codes
📬 Get the weekly deals email
One email a week with the best current deals from our partner stores: home, kitchen, tech, car and gifts. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.
Emails include affiliate links; COMPZA may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See our privacy policy.