P0444Generic code

P0444 Code: Evaporative Emission System Purge Control Valve Circuit Open

The P0444 code means the circuit of the EVAP purge valve is open, so the valve gets no current when the computer activates it. Check the connector, the fuse and the wiring before you replace the valve, which is an inexpensive part. A valve stuck open can cause a hard start after fueling and a rough idle.

Severity
Low
Can I keep driving?
Yes, no immediate risk
Estimated cost
$30 to $200
Difficulty
Medium
System
Emissions Control
Applies to
All OBD2 vehicles

Updated Reviewed by Renzo Chacca

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What the P0444 code means

The purge valve opens the path for fuel vapors stored in the charcoal canister to flow into the intake, where they are burned. The computer opens and closes it with a pulsed signal.

The computer watches the control circuit from its own driver transistor. The P0444 code points to an open circuit: the component gets no current when it is activated. Before you replace the component, check the fuse, the relay, the connector and the wiring, because they are the most common cause.

A valve that does not open keeps the canister from being emptied, and the EVAP monitor stays incomplete. One that sticks open lets vapors and air into the engine all the time, which causes a hard start after fueling and an unstable idle.

Measure the resistance of the component at its connector. If it is infinite, the component is open inside. If it reads correctly, follow the control wire to the computer looking for a break, especially in the stretches near the exhaust and at intermediate connectors.

P0444 code symptoms

  • Check engine light on.
  • Hard starting after fueling.
  • Unstable idle.
  • Gasoline smell.

Likely causes of the P0444 code

  1. Connector unplugged or with a broken lock.
  2. Open coil. The resistance reads infinite.
  3. Cut wire. Check the rubbing points and the areas near the exhaust.
  4. Blown fuse, often from a short in the component itself.

How to diagnose the P0444 code step by step

  1. Activate the component with the scan tool and see whether it responds.
  2. Check the fuse and the relay.
  3. Measure the supply at the connector. You should see battery voltage with the key on or when it is activated.
  4. Measure the resistance of the component and compare it with the manual. Check the insulation to ground too.
  5. Check the control wire for continuity and for the absence of shorts.
  6. With the engine off, blow through the valve. No air should pass.
  7. Activate it with 12 volts or with the scan tool. It should open with a click.

How to fix the P0444 code

  • Repair the connector, the wiring or the supply.
  • Replace the EVAP purge valve if it does not respond with correct supply and control.
  • Clear the codes and verify that the monitor completes.

Technical reference data

  • 12 volt solenoid with PWM control, with approximate resistance of 20 to 30 ohms.
  • These are approximate values, so check the manufacturer data for your engine.

Brand-specific notes

This code is very common, and the valve is an inexpensive part.

P0444 on GM

Very common on GM vehicles, and the valve is an inexpensive part.

P0444 on Ford

Very common on Ford vehicles, and the valve is an inexpensive part.

P0444 on Toyota

Very common on Toyota vehicles, and the valve is an inexpensive part.

P0444 on Hyundai

Very common on Hyundai vehicles, and the valve is an inexpensive part.

Frequently asked questions about P0444

Can I drive with a P0444 code?
Yes. It normally does not affect driving. Repair it before the emissions inspection.
What does the EVAP purge valve do?
The purge valve opens the path for fuel vapors stored in the canister to flow into the intake so they are burned. The computer opens and closes it with a pulsed signal.
Do I always have to replace the part?
No. Check the fuses, relays, connectors and wiring first.
How much does it cost to fix P0444?
Roughly $30 to $200, depending on whether it is wiring or the valve itself. Diagnosing the P0444 code properly first keeps you from paying for parts you do not need.
What does the P0444 code mean?
It is a generic OBD2 code for an open circuit in the EVAP purge control valve. The valve does not get current when the computer activates it.
Will a P0444 code clear itself?
Only if the fault was a one-time glitch, such as a loose connector. A cut wire or an open coil will bring the code back.

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