How severe is this DTC?
Like most EVAP faults, I would say it’s low on the severity scale. The entire system was primarily designed to reduce emissions into the atmosphere. Obviously, it does much more in the meantime, but all that said, really the only thing negatively affected by this fault is the atmosphere. At the moment, I can’t think of any EVAP system issue that could harm the overall safety of the vehicle. This does NOT mean you can keep driving the vehicle day after day without addressing the problem. One problem always leads to another if left unresolved for too long.
What are some symptoms of the code?
Symptoms of a P2026 trouble code may include:
- State/provincial emissions test failure
- Check Engine Light (CEL) illuminated
- Slight decrease in fuel efficiency
- Fuel odor
- Possible abnormal fuel filling symptoms (slow fills, unable to fully squeeze the gas pump trigger, etc.)
What are some common causes of the code?
Causes of this P2026 fuel compensation code may include:
- Faulty EVAP (Evaporative Emissions) fuel vapor temperature sensor
- Obstruction/leak in the system causing sensor operation out of range (mainly P2025)
- Broken or damaged EVAP fuel vapor temperature sensor wiring harness
- Short circuit in the power wire
- Excessive resistance in the circuit
- ECM (Engine Control Module) problem
- Pin/connector issue (corrosion, melting, broken locking tab, etc.)
How to troubleshoot and repair a P2026 code?
As mentioned above, the overall health of the EVAP (Evaporative Emissions) system is of great importance. Check that the involved components are not obstructed and that there are no visible cracks in the plastic pipes. It would be a good idea to locate where the EVAP system gets its fresh atmospheric air to introduce into the system to regulate pressure differences. In some cases, most parts used in this system will be located under the vehicle. I would recommend using wheel ramps rather than a hydraulic jack due to their convenience and especially the safety benefits.
NOTE: Be careful when disconnecting/handling EVAP hoses and pipes. Often, they may appear healthy until you try to disconnect them and a clip or the entire hose breaks, and you now have to replace/repair something to proceed further with your diagnostics. Be extremely careful here.
Test the sensor. From my experience, the ECM uses the EVAP fuel vapor temperature sensor’s voltage readings to monitor temperatures. That said, there is most likely a specific pin test that can be performed to check the sensor’s functionality.