There are a few reasons why your Acura may be telling you to check the emission system.
The two most common reasons are a loose fuel cap or a defective emissions control system, the Fuel Evaporative System (EVAP) more precisely.
If you ignore the warning message, it could eventually lead to a failed emissions test, and you may be fined or even have your car impounded.
Another reason your Acura might say check the emission system is if there is a problem with the fuel system. If there’s a leak in the fuel system, it could cause harmful emissions to escape from the car. Repairing the leak as soon as possible is very important.
What is a Fuel Evaporative System (EVAP)?
Your car’s fuel evaporative system, or EVAP, is a critical part of its emissions control system. The EVAP captures and recirculates gasoline vapors from the fuel tank.
These vapors are then burned in the engine, which helps reduce emissions. There are two types of EVAP systems: open and closed.
An open system allows the vapors to escape to the atmosphere. A closed system traps the vapors in a charcoal canister, where they are later burned.
How an EVAP Works
There are three main parts to your car’s EVAP system: the fuel tank, the purge valve, and the charcoal canister.
The engine draws in air from the atmosphere when you start your vehicle. This air passes through the purge valve and into the fuel tank.
The purge valve is like a one-way valve: it allows air to enter the fuel tank, but not vice versa. This helps prevent harmful vapors from escaping from the tank.
The air passing through the fuel tank picks up gasoline vapors that would otherwise be lost. After the purge valve, the air enters the charcoal canister, which is filled with activated carbon pellets.
The gasoline vapors are trapped in the canister by a chemical adhesive and stored there until your engine runs a diagnostic test on the EVAP system.
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Annual Emissions Testing and EVAPs
Your car’s fuel evaporative system (EVAP) is tested during an annual emissions inspection to confirm that it works properly.
The inspector will start your car’s engine and allow it to idle. Then, the inspector will pull up to 30mph while watching for leaks in the system.
If you have any questions about your car’s fuel evaporative system, please get in touch with a certified mechanic.
Tighten Fuel Cap Warning message
Some Acura owners report that soon after getting the “check emission system” warning message, they get another warning message about their fuel cap.
When you see the “Tighten Fuel Cap” message on your Acura, it means that the fuel cap is not tight enough. This can cause problems with your car’s engine and lead to decreased fuel economy.
How do I tighten the fuel cap on my acura?
The way to tighten the fuel cap on your Acura will vary depending on the make and model of your car. However, most cars have a fuel cap that can be tightened by hand. Consult your owner’s manual for more specific instructions.
What are the consequences of not tightening the fuel cap on my Acura?
If you do not tighten the fuel cap on your Acura, it can cause problems with your car’s engine. These issues include rough idling or stalling while driving. It can also lead to decreased fuel economy.
Several car manufacturers have issued official recalls on some of their vehicles over faulty gas caps. However, a quick online search shows that Acura did not have any recalls addressing this issue.
Related content: Everything You Need to Know About the Acura B12 Service
Do I need to get my fuel cap replaced?
If you can still tighten the fuel cap on your Acura, then no repairs are necessary at this time. However, if you notice that you have trouble tightening the fuel cap, you should replace it.
How do I prevent future problems?
Taking care of your car is critical to its performance. By performing regular checks on the tightness of your fuel cap, you can help ensure that you are doing all you can to prevent issues with your vehicle’s engine and increased emissions.
Regularly checking the tightness of your fuel cap also helps promote safety by preventing the risk of fire or explosion due to loose caps, which could result in serious injury.
If you notice any change in how well you can tighten it, it is highly recommended that you take your Acura to a mechanic for inspection.
Related: How Much Does It Cost to Get Your Exhaust Welded?
What are some other causes of the “Tighten Fuel Cap” message?
There are a few other reasons that you might see the “Tighten Fuel Cap” message on your Acura. One possibility is that there is water or condensation in the fuel system.
This can be caused by several things, such as a leak in the fuel tank or a faulty fuel cap. It’s important to have these issues addressed as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your car.
Another possibility is that there is dirt or debris in the fuel system. This can also be caused by a number of things, such as a bad fuel pump or clogged fuel filter.
Like with water or condensation, it’s important that you have this issue addressed as soon as possible.
If you are experiencing any of these issues, it’s best to take your Acura to a mechanic for inspection and repairs.
Related content: What does “check VSA system” mean on Acura?
Is it safe to drive with a check emission system?
If your emission system is displaying a check emissions message, it’s important to have the issue checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible.
Failing to address an emission system problem can result in decreased fuel economy and performance and can even cause damage to the engine.
Some common issues that can cause this warning message include problems with the gas cap, clogged air filters, and faulty sensors.
It’s important to keep your car in good condition by performing regular checks and maintenance, including checking the tightness of the gas cap.
By performing regular maintenance, you can better ensure the safety and longevity of your Acura.
Related content: What Does Check TPMS System On Your Acura?
References
EVAP Evaporative Emission Control System
My name is Jeffrey Williams and I have been a car mechanic for over 35 years. I am currently working NYC Auto Repair Shop, in New York City and recently developed a strong passion about blogging. I decided to put together this blog where I will try and answer the most commonly asked questions I get on a daily basis from my customers.
