Pontiac Bonneville engine light on with code P0442 indicating small evaporative system leak and stalling issue on Pontiac Bonneville

Some Pontiac Bonneville owners report experiencing issues related to the P0442 trouble code, which typically indicates a small leak in the evaporative emission control system. Symptoms associated with this code are usually minimal, manifesting as the illumination of the check engine light and a possible gas smell near the back of the vehicle. In rare instances, owners may encounter difficulty starting the vehicle after refueling, suggesting a stuck open purge valve. The P0442 code signifies a fuel vapor leak that can be as small as 0.04 inches in diameter, and if left unchecked, this minor leak can lead to more significant problems. Common causes include a loose or damaged gas cap, cracked EVAP hoses, a faulty EVAP purge valve, or a leaking EVAP canister. While diagnosing the P0442 code can be challenging, it is generally viewed as a benign issue that requires prompt attention to prevent complications and ensure the vehicle's proper functioning.