EngineLightCodes
Powertrain code

P0444 EVAP System Purge Control Valve A Circuit Open

Severity
Fix soon
Typical repair cost
$20–$220
Do it yourself
Possible, easy
Shop time
0.3–1 hours

The evaporative emission (EVAP) system stores fuel vapour from the tank in a charcoal canister; a purge valve lets the engine draw it off, and a vent valve opens the canister to fresh air.

How the engine computer detects it

P0444 belongs to the older scheme of circuit, open and shorted codes for purge valve A; Saab's Trionic T7 and VW use it, while GM reports an open circuit as P0443 and Ford covers everything in P0443. Saab checks with the output switched off: below 2 V the supply through the coil is missing or the line is grounded – Saab combines both under P0444, sets it after about 1 s and pauses the check until the next drive. Purging then stops.

Written from public technical sources and not yet checked by a mechanic. How we write these pages

Symptoms

  • Check engine light on
  • Possibly fuel smell
  • EVAP monitors do not run

Common causes

  1. Purge valve connector off or corroded Most likely
  2. Valve coil open Possible
  3. Supply wire, fuse, main relay or control wire open Possible
  4. Control wire shorted to ground (Saab definition) Less likely

How to diagnose P0444

  1. Read every stored code with an OBD-II scanner. If misfire or fuel trim codes are there too, fix those first: they often cause this one.
  2. Inspect the parts involved: evap purge valve, purge valve wiring, engine control module.
  3. Work through the causes above from most to least likely, cheapest checks first.
  4. Clear the code and drive a full drive cycle to confirm the repair held.

Reading the code

P
Powertrain
0
Generic (SAE) code
4
Auxiliary emission controls
44
Specific fault

Questions drivers ask

Can I drive with code P0444?

Usually yes for a short time, if the car drives normally, the temperature gauge reads normal and the check engine light is steady. If the light flashes, the engine loses power or overheats, or other warning lights come on, pull over and have it checked.

Will my car pass an emissions inspection with P0444?

Probably not in states that test vehicles with an OBD-II scan: an emissions-related code that keeps the check engine light on is usually an automatic fail. Rules differ by state and county, so check yours.

Can I fix P0444 myself?

Often yes, with an OBD-II scanner and basic tools. Difficulty: easy. Start with the cheapest checks before replacing expensive parts.

This page is general information, not a substitute for a professional diagnosis. Repair costs are rough estimates for parts and labor and vary by vehicle and region.