P0467 is a diagnostic trouble code that points to a problem with your vehicle’s evaporative emissions (EVAP) system, specifically the purge flow sensor circuit reading too high. In plain terms, your car’s computer is seeing an electrical signal from the EVAP purge sensor that doesn’t make sense. While this code usually won’t leave you stranded, it can cause drivability issues, poor fuel economy, and failed emissions tests. Understanding what triggers P0467, how it behaves, and how to diagnose it will help you decide whether it’s a simple DIY fix or a job for a professional.
What Does P0467 Mean?
P0467 stands for “Purge Flow Sensor Circuit High Input.” Your vehicle’s EVAP system captures fuel vapors from the fuel tank and routes them to the engine to be burned instead of vented to the atmosphere. A purge flow sensor (sometimes integrated into a pressure sensor or flow sensor assembly) monitors how much vapor is being purged.
When the ECU (engine control unit) sees a voltage signal from this sensor that is higher than the expected range, it sets P0467. This usually points to an electrical issue such as an open circuit, short to voltage, or a faulty sensor, rather than a simple vacuum leak.
Quick Reference
- Code: P0467
- Definition: Purge Flow Sensor Circuit High Input
- System: EVAP (Evaporative Emissions Control)
- Severity: Low to moderate (emissions and drivability)
- Typical Fixes: Wiring repair, connector cleaning, purge/EVAP sensor replacement
Real-World Example / Field Notes
In the shop, I often see P0467 on higher-mileage vehicles where the EVAP components live in harsh conditions: heat, road salt, and fuel vapors. A common scenario is a compact SUV that comes in with a check engine light and slightly rough idle. The owner complains of a fuel smell after refueling. Scan data shows the purge flow sensor stuck at a high voltage even with the purge valve commanded off. A quick visual inspection reveals a corroded connector at the sensor, green with oxidation. Cleaning the connector and repairing one broken wire clears the code and restores normal readings without replacing any major parts.
Symptoms of P0467
- Check engine light on: The most obvious symptom is the MIL (malfunction indicator lamp) illuminated with stored code P0467.
- Rough idle: A faulty purge control or sensor can cause unstable idle if vapors are purged at the wrong time or in the wrong amount.
- Hard starting: You may notice extended cranking, especially after refueling or when the engine is hot.
- Poor fuel economy: Incorrect purge control can slightly reduce MPG as the ECU struggles to manage fuel trims.
- Fuel odor: In some cases, you might smell fuel vapors around the vehicle, especially near the rear or after filling the tank.
- Failed emissions test: An active P0467 code will usually cause an automatic failure of an OBD-II emissions inspection.
- Other EVAP codes: You may see P0441, P0446, or similar EVAP-related codes stored alongside P0467.
Common Causes of P0467
Most Common Causes
- Faulty purge flow sensor: The sensor itself (or EVAP pressure/flow sensor assembly) can fail internally, sending a constant high-voltage signal to the ECU.
- Damaged wiring harness: Broken, rubbed-through, or corroded wires in the EVAP sensor circuit can create an open circuit or short to power, causing a high input reading.
- Corroded or loose connector: Moisture intrusion at the sensor connector is very common, especially in rust-belt areas, and can cause erratic or high sensor voltage.
- Short to voltage: If the signal wire is accidentally contacting a 12V source or reference voltage, the ECU will see an abnormally high signal.
- Aftermarket modifications: Poorly installed remote starters, alarm systems, or performance wiring can sometimes tap into the wrong circuits and interfere with EVAP sensor signals.
Less Common Causes
- Faulty purge solenoid affecting sensor: On some designs, a failing purge valve can cause abnormal pressure or flow conditions that confuse the sensor and trigger a high input code.
- ECU internal fault: Rarely, the engine computer’s input circuit can fail and misread a normal sensor signal as too high.
- Incorrect sensor installed: Using the wrong replacement sensor (incorrect part number or calibration) can send voltage values outside the expected range.
- Poor ground points: Shared grounds for multiple sensors can corrode, creating odd reference voltages and skewed readings.
- Water or fuel contamination in EVAP components: Liquid fuel or water in the charcoal canister or lines can sometimes lead to abnormal sensor behavior.
Diagnosis: Step-by-Step Guide
Before you dive in, it helps to have the right tools: a good OBD-II scan tool (preferably with live data and Mode $06), a digital multimeter, basic hand tools, and possibly a wiring diagram for your specific vehicle. A smoke machine is a bonus but not usually required for this particular code since it’s more electrical than leak-related.
- Confirm the code: Connect your scan tool, read all stored and pending codes, and record freeze-frame data. Clear the codes and see if P0467 returns quickly or only under certain conditions.
- Inspect EVAP components visually: Locate the purge flow sensor or EVAP pressure/flow sensor (often near the engine bay or on/near the charcoal canister). Check the harness for rubbing, cracks, or obvious damage.
- Check the connector: Unplug the sensor and inspect the terminals. Look for green corrosion, bent pins, broken locks, or signs of water intrusion. Clean and dry as needed, then reconnect firmly.
- Monitor live data: With the engine off and then idling, watch the purge flow or EVAP sensor reading on the scan tool. If it shows a fixed high value (often near 5V equivalent or maximum reading) regardless of purge command, suspect a circuit or sensor issue.
- Test reference voltage and ground: With the key on, use a multimeter to verify the 5V reference (if applicable) and a solid ground at the sensor connector. A missing ground or incorrect reference can cause a high input signal.
- Check signal wire: Back-probe the signal wire and measure voltage with the sensor connected. Compare to spec from a service manual. If the signal is pegged high, unplug the sensor; if the voltage stays high with the sensor disconnected, you likely have a short to voltage in the harness or an ECU issue.
- Wiggle test the harness: While watching live data or your meter, gently move the wiring harness and connector. If the reading jumps or drops, you’ve probably found an intermittent wiring or connector problem.
- Use Mode $06 (if available): Some scan tools let you view EVAP monitor test results. This can show whether the EVAP monitor is repeatedly failing due to sensor readings out of range.
- Substitute a known-good sensor (if possible): If wiring checks out and the code persists, installing a known-good or new OEM-quality sensor is often the final confirmation.
- Re-test drive: After repairs, clear the codes and perform a complete drive cycle. Make sure the EVAP monitor runs and that P0467 does not return.
Pro tip: Always check for technical service bulletins (TSBs) for your specific year, make, and model. Some manufacturers have known issues with EVAP sensor connectors or harness routing and provide updated parts or repair procedures.
Possible Fixes & Repair Costs
Most P0467 repairs are straightforward once you’ve pinpointed the cause. Common fixes include cleaning or tightening the sensor connector, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, or replacing the purge flow/EVAP sensor itself. In some cases, you may also need a new purge solenoid or charcoal canister if they’ve been contaminated or are affecting sensor readings. Typical repair costs at a professional shop range from about $100–$200 for simple wiring or connector repairs, $150–$400 for sensor or purge valve replacement, and $400+ if more extensive EVAP components or harness sections are needed. Labor rates, parts quality (OEM vs aftermarket), and vehicle design all affect the final cost.
Can I Still Drive With P0467?
You can usually continue driving with P0467 without immediate danger to the engine or drivetrain, but it’s not ideal to ignore it. The EVAP system is part of your emissions control, and a faulty purge flow signal can cause minor drivability issues, fuel smell, and reduced fuel economy. More importantly, your check engine light will stay on, which means you might miss new, more serious codes. If your area requires emissions testing, you’ll likely fail until the issue is repaired and the EVAP monitor completes successfully.
What Happens If You Ignore P0467?
If you ignore P0467 long-term, you risk chronic fuel vapor leaks into the atmosphere, potential damage to the charcoal canister from improper purge operation, and persistent check engine light problems. You may also face repeated emissions test failures and could end up spending more later if additional EVAP components fail due to contamination or prolonged malfunction.
Related Codes
- P0474 – Exhaust Pressure Sensor Intermittent
- P0473 – Exhaust Pressure Sensor High
- P0472 – Exhaust Pressure Sensor Low
- P0471 – Exhaust Pressure Sensor Range/Performance
- P0470 – Exhaust Pressure Sensor
- P0469 – EVAP Purge Flow Sensor Circuit Intermittent
- P0468 – EVAP Purge Flow Sensor Circuit High
- P0466 – EVAP Purge Flow Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
- P0465 – EVAP Purge Flow Sensor Circuit
- P0464 – Fuel Level Sensor “A” Circuit Intermittent
Key Takeaways
- P0467 means the ECU sees a purge flow sensor circuit signal that is too high, usually due to an electrical issue.
- Symptoms are often mild but include a check engine light, rough idle, fuel odor, and possible fuel economy loss.
- Most causes are wiring, connector, or sensor-related rather than simple vacuum leaks.
- Proper diagnosis with a scan tool and multimeter is crucial before replacing parts.
- Driving is usually possible, but you risk emissions failures and masking other problems if you delay repairs.
Vehicles Commonly Affected by P0467
P0467 can show up on almost any OBD-II vehicle, but it’s more frequently seen on certain platforms. Many owners of Toyota, Lexus, Nissan, Infiniti, Honda, and Acura models report EVAP sensor and wiring issues as the vehicles age. It’s also fairly common on GM sedans and SUVs (Chevrolet, GMC, Buick), as well as some Ford and Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep products with engine-bay-mounted EVAP sensors exposed to heat and moisture. Compact cars, crossovers, and small SUVs that see a lot of city driving and short trips tend to develop EVAP-related codes more often.
FAQ
Can P0467 cause my car to run rough or stall?
Yes, it can. If the purge system is commanded on at the wrong time or the ECU is getting bad information from the purge flow sensor, it can upset the air-fuel mixture. This may lead to rough idle, hesitation, or in rare cases stalling, especially at low speeds or right after refueling.
Is P0467 an emissions-only problem?
Primarily, yes. P0467 is mainly an EVAP/emissions code, but the EVAP system interacts with engine operation. While it’s not as serious as misfire or low-oil-pressure codes, it can still affect drivability and fuel economy, and it will definitely cause an emissions test failure until fixed.
Can I clear P0467 and just keep driving?
You can clear the code with a scan tool, and it may stay off for a while, but if the underlying problem isn’t fixed, P0467 will usually return once the EVAP monitor runs again. Repeatedly clearing codes without diagnosis is not recommended, because you might miss more serious issues that appear later.
How do I know if it’s the sensor or the wiring causing P0467?
You’ll need to test. Use a multimeter to check for proper 5V reference, ground, and signal voltage at the sensor connector. If the signal is stuck high even with the sensor unplugged, the wiring or ECU is suspect. If the wiring checks out and the signal normalizes with a new sensor, the original sensor was likely faulty.
Can a loose gas cap trigger P0467?
A loose or faulty gas cap is a common cause of other EVAP codes like P0455 or P0456, but it rarely causes P0467 by itself. P0467 is focused on the purge flow sensor circuit reading high, which is more of an electrical or sensor issue than a simple leak at the fuel cap.