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The P1451 code indicates that there’s an issue with your vehicle’s EVAP systems vent solenoid. The engine control module (ECM) looks for a change in the EVAP system pressures to validate that the EVAP vent solenoid has actually opened or closed the vent. If there is no change in the pressure, the ECM will set this code. Additionally, this code is a manufacturer-specific code, which means it only pops up in certain vehicles, most prominently Ford vehicles.
You may also be interested in P0498 – EVAP System Vent Valve Control Circuit Low.
More About the P1451 Code
The EVAP system needs to consistently monitor the solenoid circuit, which is responsible for changing important components of the ECM. The circuit should send back a specific signal whenever it’s requested for one, and the parameters for that signal are set within the ECM or powertrain control module (PCM). If that signal isn’t within the specified parameters, then the ECM or PCM will be aware that there’s a problem, which will trigger the code.
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The only common symptom of the P1451 code is the check engine light. In most instances, this code won’t actually cause any drivability issues and may drive perfectly fine, with the exception of the illuminated check engine light. However, this small problem can quickly spiral into other problems, for which you’ll also receive codes. Just because there are no drivability symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean that you’re good to keep driving forever.
The most common cause of this code is a malfunctioning solenoid circuit. It’s common for this code to trigger simply because the circuit no longer has the ability to pass the information to the rest of the vehicle effectively, meaning that you need to replace it. However, it may also be due to an issue with the circuit being open or shorted to the ground, as well as an issue with the battery voltage.
The P1451 code isn’t incredibly serious at first, and it will often cause very few problems initially. However, the longer you allow any component of your vehicle to keep malfunctioning, the more likely it is that the malfunction will proceed to other areas of your vehicle, often creating more and more malfunctioning issues. That’s why it’s always important to fix the problem, even if it doesn’t seem that important.
Your P1451 code should not prevent you from driving altogether. Most of the time, you’ll still be able to drive, and you’ll generally have no drivability issues overall. Of course, this doesn’t mean you should just keep driving with no care for your vehicle’s condition. Instead, it means that you’ll usually be able to drive your vehicle to the repair shop without any issues.
This code can be fairly easy to diagnose, and some DIYers may choose to do it themselves. If the problem is a low battery voltage, then you may be able to replace or charge the battery on your own; if it’s an issue with the solenoid circuit, then you might be able to replace the solenoid circuit. However, it’s also important that you know how to check whether these things are the problem, as replacing them with no need for replacement can be difficult, time-consuming, and expensive. If you don’t have the tools or knowledge necessary, then an expert will be able to do it more easily.
The inspection process for the P1451 code will generally require at least a few specialized tools. While some more avid vehicle enthusiasts may have the tools necessary, those without the tools to monitor the circuit and voltage should instead get help from an expert who will both have these tools and be able to use them effectively.
Whether you have no interest in DIYing your vehicle fixes or you’re just not interested in trying to handle potentially complicated wiring on your own, an expert can help you fix the problem in the quickest time frame. If you’re looking for a simple fix to the P1451 code, you should take your vehicle in to a local repair shop.
KBB can help with the repair shop locator. With this tool, you’ll be able to find a local repair shop where you can drive your vehicle and get the help you need.
Additionally, if you’re interested in learning more about these diagnostic codes or you want to look up other codes that your vehicle’s engine is throwing, check out the OBD-II database. It’s a great tool if you’re interested in getting more insight into what’s happening within your vehicle.
All recalls are considered serious. Stay safe. Take care of any recalls ASAP. The good news? Recall repairs are free when performed at a local dealer.