P0442 on 2007-2014 Nissan Versa: EVAP Small Leak Causes and Fixes

What's Unique About the 2007-2014 Nissan VERSA

For the Nissan Versa, especially the 2007-2011 models, Nissan has specifically highlighted that a loose fuel cap is a very common trigger for this code, as noted in Technical Service Bulletin NTB09020F. Later models (2012+) are also susceptible, as covered in TSB NTB13-097J. This strong emphasis from the manufacturer makes the gas cap the undeniable first checkpoint for any Versa owner seeing a P0442 code. The second most common failure point on this platform is the EVAP canister vent control valve, which is located under the car near the rear passenger side and is susceptible to dirt and moisture.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Tap your situation to follow the diagnostic path that matches what you're seeing on this vehicle.

Generation note: The 2007-2014 range covers two generations of the Nissan Versa: the first generation (C11, 2007-2012) and the start of the second generation (N17, 2012-2014). While the causes are similar, Nissan issued separate TSBs. TSB NTB09020F specifically calls out the fuel cap for 2007-2011 models, while TSB NTB13-097J applies to 2012 and newer models, indicating a consistent issue across generations but with potentially different diagnostic approaches recommended by the dealer. The underlying EVAP system components are largely the same.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Check Engine Light is on
• A faint smell of fuel, particularly when parked in an enclosed space like a garage
• A "Loose Fuel Cap" warning message on the instrument cluster of some models
• Slightly rough idle or difficulty starting after refueling (if the purge valve is stuck open)

Most Likely Causes

1. Loose or Faulty Gas Cap 🔴 High Probability Nissan TSBs NTB09020F and NTB13-097J directly identify a loose or faulty fuel cap as a primary cause for this code on the Versa. The rubber seal on the cap can crack, harden, or get dirty over time, preventing a proper seal. Many owner forum posts confirm that simply replacing the gas cap resolved their P0442 issue.
   How to confirm: First, ensure the cap is tightened until it clicks multiple times. Clear the code and drive. If the light returns, inspect the cap's rubber O-ring for any cracks, stiffness, or damage. Also, check the fuel filler neck for rust or debris that could prevent a good seal. It is highly recommended to use an OEM cap, as owners report issues with aftermarket caps not sealing correctly.
   Typical fix: Replace the gas cap. It is highly recommended to use an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) cap from Nissan, as some aftermarket caps may not seal correctly.
   Est. part cost: $20-$40
2. Faulty EVAP Canister Vent Control Valve/Solenoid 🟡 Medium Probability This valve is located under the car, near the rear passenger side, behind a plastic splash guard, making it vulnerable to road debris, dirt, and moisture which can cause it to stick open or fail. A YouTube video for a 2010 Versa shows this exact replacement to fix an EVAP code. 🎬 Watch this walkthrough on replacing the vent control valve. Another Nissan TSB (NTB17-082E) points to O-ring failure on this valve as a cause for a similar EVAP code (P0456).
   How to confirm: The valve can be tested with a capable scan tool that can command it to open and close. A clicking sound indicates the solenoid is activating, but doesn't guarantee it's sealing. A smoke test is the most effective way to confirm if the valve is leaking. Visually, it may be rusted or clogged with dirt upon removal.
   Typical fix: Replace the EVAP canister vent control valve. On the Versa, this is a relatively simple replacement after removing a small plastic cover held by three clips.
   Est. part cost: $50-$150
3. Faulty EVAP Canister Purge Valve/Solenoid ⚪ Low Probability Located in the engine bay, this valve controls the flow of fuel vapors from the canister to the engine. It can get stuck open or closed, causing a leak in the system. While less common than the vent valve, it's a known failure point on many Nissan vehicles.
   How to confirm: With the engine off, disconnect the hose from the valve that leads to the engine intake. Try to blow through it; if air passes, the valve is stuck open and is faulty. A long crank time or rough idle after refueling is another symptom of a stuck-open purge valve. 🎬 See how to test and replace the purge valve.
   Typical fix: Replace the purge valve. This is typically an easy repair located on or near the engine, often held by a single 10mm bolt.
   Est. part cost: $30-$80
4. Cracked or Disconnected EVAP Hoses ⚪ Low Probability Over time, the rubber and plastic hoses that make up the EVAP system can become brittle, crack, or get damaged by road debris, leading to small leaks. Hoses connected to the purge valve in the engine bay are particularly susceptible to heat and age.
   How to confirm: A visual inspection may reveal obvious cracks, especially at connection points and bends. Squeezing the hoses can reveal hidden cracks. However, small leaks are often invisible to the naked eye and require a smoke test to locate precisely.
   Typical fix: Replace the damaged section of hose and any broken clips or fittings.
   Est. part cost: $10-$50

Rare But Worth Checking

• Cracked Charcoal Canister: The canister itself, located under the car, can develop cracks from road debris impact or age, causing a leak. This is usually found during a smoke test if other components check out. A video for a 2009 Versa shows the location of the canister and associated valve.
• Leaking Fuel Tank or Filler Neck: Rust or corrosion on the fuel filler neck can prevent the gas cap from sealing properly. In very rare cases, the fuel tank itself could have a small crack or a leaking seal around the fuel pump assembly.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Check the gas cap. Remove it, inspect the seal for damage, and retighten it until it clicks at least three times. Clear the code with a scanner and drive for a few days to see if it returns.
2. If the code returns, replace the gas cap with a new OEM part. This is an inexpensive and highly probable fix.
3. Visually inspect all accessible EVAP hoses in the engine bay and under the vehicle for obvious cracks, disconnections, or damage. Pay close attention to the small vacuum lines connected to the purge valve.
4. Locate the EVAP canister vent control valve (under the rear of the car, passenger side, behind a plastic shield) and the purge valve (in the engine bay). Check their electrical connectors and hoses for a secure fit.
5. Test the purge valve. With the engine off, disconnect the hose leading to the intake manifold and try blowing through the valve. If air passes, it's stuck open and needs replacement.
6. If the simple checks don't resolve the issue, the most effective next step is to have a smoke test performed. A mechanic will inject non-toxic smoke into the EVAP system, and the leak will be revealed by where the smoke escapes.
🎬 Watch: How to perform a smoke test for leaks.
7. Based on the smoke test results, replace the leaking component, which could be a valve, hose, or the charcoal canister itself.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Fuel Filler Cap (OEM #17251-3JA0A) — This is the most common cause of P0442 on a Nissan Versa, as confirmed by multiple Nissan TSBs. The seal fails over time.
  Trusted brands: Nissan (OEM)
  OEM price range: $25-$40
  Aftermarket price range: $15-$30
• EVAP Canister Vent Control Valve (OEM #14935-JF00E) — This valve is a common failure point that causes EVAP leaks. It can get stuck or its seals can degrade from exposure to the elements under the car.
  Trusted brands: Nissan (OEM), Standard Motor Products (CVS67), Dorman
  OEM price range: $80-$150
  Aftermarket price range: $40-$90
• EVAP Vapor Canister Purge Valve (OEM #14930-3YM0A) — Though less common than the gas cap or vent valve, a stuck-open purge valve will cause a P0442 code and can sometimes lead to hard starting after refueling.
  Trusted brands: Nissan (OEM), Denso, Duralast
  OEM price range: $50-$90
  Aftermarket price range: $30-$60

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• P0455 — Indicates a large EVAP leak. If both codes are present, it could point to a very loose or missing gas cap, or a more significant component failure like a disconnected hose.
• P0456 — Indicates a very small EVAP leak. This code often shares the same causes as P0442, such as a failing gas cap seal or a pinhole leak in a hose. TSB NTB17-082E specifically links P0456 to a faulty vent valve O-ring.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• NTB13-097J: For 2012 and newer Nissan vehicles, provides diagnostic information for EVAP leak codes P0442, P0455, and P0456, emphasizing that a loose fuel filler cap may be the cause and providing a diagnostic flowchart.
• NTB09020F: Specifically for 2007-2011 Nissan vehicles, this TSB states that a loose fuel fill cap may be the cause for EVAP leak DTCs P0442, P0455, or P0456.
• NTB17-082E: While not directly for P0442, this TSB addresses code P0456 (very small leak) caused by a leak at the EVAP vent control valve O-ring, highlighting the valve as a known weak point in the system.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• Rusted/Stuck Vent Control Valve: Multiple owners have reported the vent control valve, located under the rear of the car, becoming heavily corroded or stuck with dirt, leading to EVAP codes. A DIY video for a 2010 Versa shows the replacement of this valve to resolve an EVAP code.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• EVAP Canister Purge Valve Resistance — expected: 15 to 38 ohms. Failure: A reading of 0 ohms (short) or infinite/OL (open circuit).
• EVAP Canister Vent Control Valve Resistance — expected: 48 to 65 ohms. Failure: A reading significantly outside this range, especially 0 or OL.
• EVAP Canister Vent Control Valve Power Supply — expected: Battery voltage (~12V). Failure: 0V indicates a problem with the power supply circuit.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• Nissan CONSULT-III or equivalent: Active Test: VENT CONTROL/V — Use this function to command the EVAP canister vent control valve ON and OFF. Listen for an audible click from the valve (located near the charcoal canister) to confirm the solenoid is activating. This helps verify the electrical circuit and solenoid function before performing a smoke test.
• Advanced Bidirectional Scan Tool: EVAP System Leak Test / Purge Valve Test — To test for a stuck-open purge valve without removal: with the engine running, command the purge valve OFF and the vent valve ON (closed). Monitor the Fuel Tank Pressure (FTP) sensor PID. If the pressure value begins to drop (create a vacuum), it indicates the purge valve is leaking engine vacuum into the EVAP system and is faulty.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• ECM (Engine Control Module) — Located in the left side of the engine compartment.. The ECM controls both the purge and vent valves. A service manual procedure for a 2011 Versa specifies checking continuity between ECM terminal 28 and the vent control valve connector (terminal 2) to diagnose circuit faults.
• EVAP Canister and Vent Control Valve — Under the right rear of the vehicle, near the fuel tank.. This is the physical location for inspecting the most common non-gas-cap related components. The valve's location makes it susceptible to road debris and corrosion.
• EVAP System Pressure Sensor — Under the right rear of the vehicle, near the EVAP canister.. This sensor provides the pressure reading to the ECM that triggers the P0442 code. Knowing its location is critical if you suspect the sensor itself is faulty.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 14935-AM60B (and others) → 14935-JF00E — Part has been revised and updated by Nissan over many years and across many models.
  Heads up: The part number 14935-JF00E is the latest in a long line of superseded parts, including 14935-JF00A/B/C/D and the older 14935-AM60x series. Using the latest revision (JF00E) is recommended to ensure you have the most updated design.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• 2007-2011 vs 2012-2014: Nissan issued separate Technical Service Bulletins for these year groups regarding EVAP leak codes. TSB NTB09020F covers 2007-2011 models, while NTB13-097J (and its revisions) covers 2012 and newer models, suggesting a different diagnostic flow or component emphasis between the first generation and the second generation.
• 2012: The model year 2012 was a transition year. The first-generation (C11) was still sold as the Versa Hatchback, while the second-generation (N17) was introduced as the Versa Sedan. Technicians should verify which platform they are working on, as component locations and wiring may differ.