What does it mean?
P1442 is a Powertrain (engine, transmission, fuel system) fault code. It indicates: EVAP System, Fuel Level Sensor Failure and Small Leak Detected .
Symptoms
- MIL on with the EVAP monitor incomplete
- Faint fuel vapour smell, strongest after refuelling or when parked in the sun
- Fuel gauge reading inaccurately or moving in steps
- No noticeable loss of power
- Slightly increased fuel consumption in some cases
Likely causes
- Loose, worn or incorrect fuel filler cap seal
- Small crack or porous section in a vapour hose between the tank, canister and purge valve
- Leaking seal at the fuel pump or sender flange on the tank
- Vent or purge valve not sealing fully when closed
- Cracked charcoal canister body or a loose canister fitting
- Fuel level sensor with a worn track or corroded connector, making the level input implausible
- Corroded filler neck or a leaking check valve at the filler
How to fix it
- Inspect and reseat the filler cap first, checking the seal for hardening and cracking
- Compare the fuel level sensor value in live data with the actual tank content and note whether it moves smoothly
- Check the sender connector at the tank flange for corrosion and loose terminals
- Pressurise the EVAP system with a smoke machine and trace the escaping smoke to find the small leak
- Pay particular attention to the tank flange seal, canister fittings and hoses running along the underbody
- Command the vent and purge valves closed and verify the system holds pressure
- Repair the leak and the level sensor circuit, then clear codes and complete an EVAP monitor drive cycle