How Much Does an EVAP Smoke Test Cost?
The Evaporative Emission Control (EVAP) system is designed to store and dispose of the fuel vapor built up in the fuel system of a vehicle, preventing the vapor from escaping into the atmosphere.
Abnormalities in the EVAP system may lead to driving problems and can often mean a failing grade on the two-speed idle test or enhanced I/M evaporative pressure or purge test.
EVAP smoke testers are used to check the system for leaks that affect the performance of a vehicle.
How much does an EVAP smoke test cost?
On average, an EVAP test can cost anywhere from $60 to as much as $150. This is just for the test and won’t cover the repairs.
According to SmogTest.com, the average cost to repair an EVAP system that failed the EVAP test is $250.
A diagnostic smoke test, according to British Columbia-based Jericho Electronics, costs $89.99 at some shops. The price does not include repair.
The machine itself, if you were to purchase on for personal use, could cost $150 to $800+.
The best sellers on Amazon.com, for instance, sell for $150 to $750.
EVAP smoke test overview
An EVAP smoke test procedure usually entails a technician clamping the end of the EVAP hose that leads to the charcoal canister and applies pressure on the gas tank using nitrogen via the EVAP test device. The tool calculates the drop in pressure resulting from leaks. If there is a loss of pressure, the vehicle will fail the EVAP portion of a smog test. Vehicles that fail the EVAP smoke test the first time are usually subjected to “phase two” of the process, which signifies that a leak large enough to set a DTC if detected.
What are the extra costs?
An airlift cooling system leak checker and purge tool kit may be a necessary extra purchase. The tool, which can cost about $100, eliminates problematic airlocks in modern automobile cooling systems.
For do-it-yourselfers, specific tools may also be required to perform the task efficiently. These may include hose clamp pliers, a hose removal tool, a spill-free funnel, to name some. These tools can cost anywhere from $20 to $40 each.
If repairs are required after a test, costs can be as high as $1,000, depending on the repair that has to be done.
Tips to know:
The purpose of the EVAP system is to reduce the number of fuel vapors escaping into the atmosphere and maintain the efficiency of a vehicle. The fuel vapors inside the EVAP system are typically stored in a charcoal canister and flushed out and burned in the combustion chamber during different states of operation. Tests are conducted to ensure that the EVAP system is working efficiently. If a test yields results that go beyond preset parameters or limits, a DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) is set and causes a MIL (Malfunction Indicator Light) or SES (Service Engine Soon) warning that alerts the driver of a malfunction.
Industry experts estimate that of the seven million vehicles that need an EVAP smoke test each year, 11 percent of them will fail.
Avoid emissions failure due to the normal evaporative emissions purge cycle. Do not test the vehicle following extended hot soak periods, prolonged idle, or after it has been left sitting out in the sun in hot weather. These conditions result in the accumulation of copious amounts of fuel vapor in the charcoal canister.
There are scan tools that have bi-directional controls with the ability to command the vehicle to conduct a self-test of the EVAP system. The test can take 10 to 20 minutes and is regarded as more comprehensive than the initial testing procedure for the reason that all the components of the system are tested.
Leaks usually found in automobiles include broken or disconnected vacuum lines, a broken exhaust, damaged throttle shafts as well as cracked plastic components and leaking gaskets and/or fittings, to name a few. With an EVAP smoke test, leaks are found, and subsequently, repaired, keeping the vehicle in good condition.
How can I save money?
Shop around. Ask friends, family or co-workers to see who they use for their mechanic. It never hurts to get at least three quotes before committing to one.
If your “check engine” light is on, go to a local AutoZone to receive a free reading. With this code, research it more in-depth online to ensure you need this type of test.
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Average Reported Cost: $239
How much did you spend?
- gerrard (Norwich , New York) paid $239 and said:
check engine light came on for a 2008 ford ranger tech did a smoke test and found the unit bad and replaced it I also replaced the gas cap New York State inspection failed until they replaced it Codes were erased but would come back until fixed
Was it worth it? Yes
