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P242Amoderate severity✨ AI-generated

Evaporative Emission System Leak Detection Pump Control Circuit Low

The control circuit for the leak detection pump is detecting a low signal.

Heads up: this code wasn't in our hand-written library yet, so DiagCoach AI built this page on the fly. Double-check critical specs against service info before condemning parts.

What it means (plain English)

The computer in your car is not getting enough voltage from the leak detection pump circuit, which is supposed to check for leaks in the fuel system.

What the computer is actually seeing

The engine control module (ECM) expects to see a voltage between 1 to 5 volts from the leak detection pump control circuit, but it's reading below 1 volt.

What a healthy reading looks like

Normal voltage from the leak detection pump circuit should be between 1.0 - 5.0 volts when activated.

Guided diagnostic — the DiagCoach way

Don't just throw parts at it. Walk through these in order — each step tells you whether to keep going or stop and fix what you found.

  1. 11. Check the wiring and connectors at the leak detection pump for damage and corrosion. If damaged, repair or replace as needed. Decision: Are connections okay? Go to step 2 if yes, if no, fix the wiring and retest.

Common causes

  • Bad connection at the leak detection pump connector
  • Faulty leak detection pump
  • Wiring issues in the control circuit
  • Blown fuse for the pump circuit

Typical repair cost

$$

Related codes

Frequently asked questions

Can I drive my car with this code active?

You can drive it, but it might affect emissions and could fail a smog check. Fix it soon.

Will this code return after repair?

If the wiring and pump are properly repaired, the code shouldn't return.

Why does this code sometimes pair with other codes?

Related codes often indicate issues in the same system, like other parts of the evaporative emissions system.

Working a real vehicle right now?

Let DiagCoach walk you through it live with your specific symptoms, vehicle, and what you've already checked.

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