What to Do When the Charcoal Canister is Clogged?
2 Answers
The solution for a clogged charcoal canister: When you find that the charcoal canister is clogged, it is essential to clean or replace it promptly to avoid affecting vehicle performance. After driving the car for a while, stop the vehicle while keeping the engine running, then manually open the fuel filler cap. If you hear a suction sound, it indicates that the charcoal canister is clogged. Additionally, when the charcoal canister is blocked, the car may emit a noticeable gasoline odor. If the car has been parked outdoors for an extended period, opening the fuel tank cap may result in a large amount of gas escaping, which also signifies a clogged charcoal canister. When the charcoal canister is blocked, the pipe leading to the fuel tank gets obstructed, causing the fuel tank to bulge, which can easily interfere with the engine's normal operation.
I just dealt with a clogged charcoal canister issue recently. When I noticed the car had poor acceleration and a gasoline smell, I knew something was wrong. The quickest fix is to take it to a repair shop and have them blow it out with compressed air—the mechanic will remove the canister and use an air gun to clear it. If it's completely blocked, don't bother trying to clean it; just replace it with a new one. Aftermarket parts cost around 200-300 yuan. Also, avoid overfilling the gas tank—stop at the first click of the pump, especially in summer, as a full tank can let liquid gasoline enter the canister. Regular air filter checks are crucial too. I have my mechanic check the canister's vent tube condition every six months. The charcoal canister is usually located near the wheels, and cars driven on rough roads are especially prone to clogging from mud and debris.
