One of the most common trouble codes with the Subaru Liberty is the P0442 code. This code number references a number that is given to you when you plug your vehicle into a OBDII scanner. It’s typically not going to be a problem that’ll lead to an immediate breakdown, but it should not be ignored.
Here’s a great video that shows the evaporation purge valve being replaced:
Subaru Liberty P0442 Code Symptoms
With the Liberty, P0442 will often be thrown after the engine after refueling. After which it’ll be difficult to start the engine. This is the most common symptom of this trouble code. You’ll fill up the vehicle and it just won’t start. Then, it’ll either start on the second try, or after cranking the engine for a while. If you’re old enough to have driven a carbureted vehicle, the old stomp the gas and crank the engine method does actually help start the engine in this situation.
Other than the difficulty in starting, the P0442 doesn’t seem to cause any other problems (at least in the short-term). You may also smell gas when driving. There should be no noticeable effect on the way the engine runs when driving
Subaru Liberty P0442 Code Defined
P0442 is a general OBDII trouble code, which means it has the same meaning regardless of who manufactured the vehicle. The code technically stands for:
Evaporative Emission System – Leak Detected
The EVAP system captures all fuel vapor from the fuel tank and sends them to the engine’s intake in order to be ignited in the normal combustion process.
When the Subaru Liberty’s computer detects that the EVAP system is not holding any pressure, it will throw the P0442 code.
Subaru Liberty P0442 Causes
There are many things that can cause the P0442 trouble code on the Subaru Liberty. The most common problem is far and away the first one listed below.
- EVAP Canister Purge Valve– The most common culprit with the P0442 trouble code and the Subaru Liberty is going to be the vapor canister purge valve. When it goes bad, it typically causes issues with the vehicle’s idle speed. This is especially true right after you fuel up.It’s really easy to replace. There are a few clips that you need to find and remove. There’s a great YouTube video on diagnosing the problem below, as well as how to replace the part. It’s fantastic. This is almost always the problem. They are really cheap on Amazon too. Always make sure to verify the fit for your vehicle. There’s a tool to check the fit right there.
- Fuel Vapor Hose– A leak in the fuel vapor hose that leads from the fuel tank to the intake will definitely throw P0442 in your Liberty.
- Gas Cap Bad– A bad fuel cap can cause the P0442 code to be thrown for sure. The Liberty will typically be warning you to tighten the fuel cap. This is a great place to start. It’s a simple thing to fix and only takes a few minutes to swap a gas cap.
- Loose Gas Cap– A loose gas cap will also trigger this trouble code. So if it’s the first time that you have experienced this issue, you may want to go ahead and tighten the cap and see if the code clears itself. Just be aware that it may take the engine several cycles clear the code.
- Fuel Tank Pressure Sensor– If the fuel tank pressure sensor has gone bad, it can cause all sorts of problems, including the P0442 code.
Good luck figuring out what is wrong with your Liberty. If there is anything that you feel could improve the article, please feel free to comment or message. Thank you.