Will a Faulty EVAP Canister Purge Solenoid Valve Affect Fuel Consumption?

[IanDella]

Yes, a faulty EVAP canister purge solenoid valve can affect fuel consumption. The EVAP canister utilizes the adsorption and filtration principle of activated charcoal to collect fuel vapors. When the vehicle starts, the canister purge solenoid valve opens, releasing the adsorbed fuel vapors into the intake manifold for re-combustion. If the canister purge solenoid valve is faulty, fuel vapors may enter the cylinders before the engine is started, leading to an excessively rich air-fuel mixture. This can cause "flooding" of the engine, resulting in difficulty starting or requiring multiple attempts. Additionally, due to the overly rich mixture, incomplete combustion occurs. The engine ECU will then make adjustments, causing the next fuel injection to be leaner. However, an overly lean mixture also makes complete combustion difficult, ultimately leading to increased fuel consumption.