Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Fuel Tank Leak Test
2006 Chevrolet HHR L4-2.2LSECTION Fuel Tank Leak Test
FUEL TANK LEAK TEST
DESCRIPTION
The fuel tank leak test is used to locate any fuel or fuel vapor escaping the fuel tank area. Fuel vapors escaping above the fuel level will be detected, if more than the calibrated amount, when the evaporative emission (EVAP) diagnostics complete one test cycle. The malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) will illuminate after the EVAP diagnostics have failed 2 test cycles.
DIAGNOSTIC AIDS
- Operate the vehicle under the condition of the customer concern. Under high temperature conditions fuel vapors may increase to the point of EVAP canister vapor saturation. Fuel vapors would then be released into the atmosphere. Once the engine is running and the EVAP purge is enabled, all fuel vapor release would be eliminated.
- Movement of the EVAP pipes or the fuel pipes may help find an intermittent condition.
- If the fuel level is low, a liquid fuel leak may not be evident.
TEST DESCRIPTION
Step 1 - Step 6:
Step 7 - Step 8:
The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table.
4. This step tests for fuel leaks below the fuel tank fuel level.
5. This step tests for fuel vapors escaping above the fuel level in the fuel tank.
RENDER: 1.0x
NO RELATED
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.