The Quick Answer above is the generic definition. What follows is the model-specific detail for the Ford models that log P0442.
DTC/P0442·Ford
P0442 on Ford: Causes, Symptoms and Fix Cost
Quick Answer
Low SeveritySafe to drive (short-term)Ford
P0442 on a Ford means the engine control unit has detected a small leak in the evaporative emission control system. This system captures fuel vapours from the tank and routes them to the engine to be burned. A small leak allows vapours to escape, increasing hydrocarbon emissions.
Typical repair cost, all makes€10 - €450
Connect any standard Bluetooth OBD2 adapter to your Ford and Skanyx tells you what P0442 means on that engine, whether it is safe to keep driving, and what the fix should cost. Free on iPhone and Android.
Get Skanyx freeWhat does P0442 mean on a Ford?
Ford Focus
2005-2022The Focus uses a vacuum-based EVAP test. The purge valve on the 1.6 Ti-VCT and 2.0 GDI engines is mounted on the intake manifold and can develop carbon buildup causing it to stick. Some Focus versions have a screw-type fuel cap and others the capless Easy Fuel filler, so check which one your car has before buying a cap.
What causes P0442 on a Ford?
Beyond the generic causes listed on the main P0442 page, these are the patterns noted for Ford models:
Ford FocusPurge valve carbon buildup on 1.6 Ti-VCT/2.0 GDI
Ford FocusCracked EVAP hose near the charcoal canister
How to diagnose P0442 on a Ford with OBD2
Follow these steps to pinpoint the root cause of P0442:
- Check the fuel cap first. Remove it, inspect the rubber seal for cracks or debris, and re-seat it until it clicks. Clear the code and drive for a few days to see if it returns
- Visually inspect all EVAP hoses from the fuel tank to the charcoal canister and from the canister to the purge valve at the engine. Look for cracks, loose clamps, or disconnections
- Perform a smoke test on the EVAP system by sealing the system and introducing smoke. Watch for smoke escaping at hose connections, the canister, or the fuel tank area
- Test the purge valve and vent valve by commanding them open and closed with a diagnostic tool that supports actuator tests (on many cars this needs manufacturer-level software, not a generic OBD2 reader). A stuck-open purge valve can allow ambient air into the system, mimicking a leak
- If the smoke test reveals no external leaks, inspect the charcoal canister for cracks and the fuel tank for damage, particularly around the fuel pump module seal
How much does P0442 cost to fix on a Ford? (EUR)
Estimated repair costs for P0442 in EUR, compiled across makes. Ford costs typically sit in the middle of each range.
Prices estimated as of March 2026. Costs vary by region, vehicle, and shop.
Codes related to P0442
These codes are often seen alongside P0442 or point to related issues, on any make:
Looking for the full P0442 reference (all makes, full diagnosis flow, complete repair cost matrix)?
See the main P0442 guideSkanyx · Ford
Diagnose P0442 on your Ford
Your car logged P0442. Skanyx reads it on any standard Bluetooth OBD2 adapter, tells you whether it is safe to keep driving, and shows the €10-€450 repair range so you know the number before a shop quotes you. Free on iPhone and Android, and you do not need to be a mechanic to read it.
Get Skanyx free