Emission controls · Powertrain · generic (SAE-defined)
P0443: Evaporative Emission System Purge Control Valve Circuit
P0443 means the engine computer has detected an electrical problem in the circuit that operates the evaporative emission (EVAP) purge control valve.
Standard title per SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6 · Updated 2026-11-07 · By CarWhere Research
How P0443 sets
The powertrain control module (PCM) drives the purge control valve by switching its ground or power circuit and monitors the circuit voltage. If it sees an open circuit, a short to ground, or a short to voltage that does not match the command, it sets P0443. Circuit monitoring details vary by manufacturer.
Common causes of P0443
Roughly most likely first; the actual cause depends on the vehicle and needs testing to confirm.
- Failed purge valve solenoid coil
- Damaged or corroded purge valve connector
- Open or shorted wiring in the purge circuit
- Blown fuse supplying the purge valve
- Rarely, a faulty PCM driver
P0443 symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Possible rough idle or hard start after fueling
- Often no symptoms
How P0443 is diagnosed
- Scan for codes and note any other circuit or fuse-related codes
- Locate the purge valve and inspect the connector and wiring
- Check the fuse and verify power at the valve with key on
- Measure the solenoid resistance and compare to specification
- Check the control wire for continuity and shorts to the PCM
- Command the valve with a scan tool and listen for clicking
Typical fixes for P0443
- Replace the purge control valve
- Repair the wiring or connector
- Replace a blown fuse after finding the cause
- Replace the PCM only after confirming wiring and valve are good
Replace parts only after testing confirms the cause — a code names the circuit or condition that failed a check, not necessarily the faulty part. We don’t publish per-repair prices; for what households actually spend on upkeep, see car repair costs.
Manufacturer notes
Definitions can vary by manufacturer; check factory service information.
Related codes & warning lights
P0443 FAQ
What does code P0443 mean?
P0443 means the engine computer has detected an electrical problem in the circuit that operates the evaporative emission (EVAP) purge control valve. The standard definition is "Evaporative Emission System Purge Control Valve Circuit."
Can I drive with a P0443 code?
Yes, typically. If the purge valve fails in the open position you may notice a rough idle or hard starting after refueling, so get it repaired soon.
Where is the purge valve located?
It is usually in the engine bay on or near the intake manifold, connected by a hose to the charcoal canister. Some vehicles mount it near the canister instead.
Can I test the purge valve myself?
A basic test is to measure the coil resistance with a multimeter and confirm it clicks when powered. A scan tool can also command the valve on and off.
Keep researching
More emission controls codes
Sources
- SAE J2012 — Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions (standard code titles)
- ISO 15031-6 — Road vehicles: communication between vehicle and external equipment for emissions-related diagnostics, Part 6: Diagnostic trouble code definitions
- U.S. EPA — Vehicle Emissions Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) programs
- U.S. EPA, 40 CFR 86.1806-17 — Federal onboard diagnostics requirements for light-duty vehicles
- California Air Resources Board — On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) Program
General information written by CarWhere Research, not a diagnosis of your vehicle. Manufacturers can add their own sub-definitions and test conditions; confirm with the factory service information for your year, make and model. Before paying for a repair, check NHTSA for open recalls and your warranty booklet: federal law requires an emissions warranty on major emission-control parts such as the catalytic converter and engine computer.