A P145C Honda Pilot code can be concerning. You want to make sure that your vehicle is perfectly fine to avoid costly and frustrating repair expenses. Now, this fault code often relates with your fuel tank pressure sensor range issue. It is, at least, the case with your US-made Honda vehicle. But in Asian markets, it is likely a problem with the EVAP or the Evaporative Emission System.
If you are dealing with this problem, find out what exactly it means and what you can do about it. Let’s dive right into it.
P145C Honda Pilot Key Facts
When you get a P145C Honda Pilot fault code, it can get worrisome. Now, the OBD II fault code or the P145C is often linked with the performance or fuel tank pressure sensor range issue. It happens when your PCM or powertrain control module has detected an issue with your pressure reading, which is often the case with Honda and the Acura.
Now, if you have a vehicle that is OBD-II compliant, this means there is a system that contains and captures fuel vapors that are generated in your fuel system and to your engine. This is then combusted and becomes part of your fuel/air mixture. However, there is no fuel vapor that escapes into the air. Although this system comes by so many names, it is often referred to as the Evaporative Emissions Control System or EVAP.
Generally, there are certain design differences on every vehicle make. However, all EVAP systems have the same components. These include your fuel tank, which is a canister filled with charcoal that traps and absorbs your fuel vapors, as well as a vent valve, pressure sensors, and purge valve. There are also hoses and lines that transport your fuel vapor that has been purged straight to your engine.
If your EVAP is working as it should, your PCM checks your fuel vapor pressure in your fuel tank using dedicated pressure sensors. When a predefined level of pressure has been reached, your PCM opens a purge valve that is otherwise closed and then a vent valve that is often closed is opened as well.
Then the engine vacuum is able to suck trapped and collected vapors out of your charcoal canister, along with some ambient air that enters the system.
When your PCM detects a low pressure in your fuel tank, it determines that the collected fuel vapors have been purged from your fuel tank. Then, this will cause your PCM to close the vent and purge valves, which will let your charcoal canister collect and trap fuel vapors. This is needed as a way of ensuring another purge cycle.
Generally, the accuracy and performance of the pressure reading from your fuel tank pressure sensor is very important. This is because the sensor offers the required input about the conditions in your fuel system to your PCM. Hence, if there is inaccuracy to the signal from your fuel tank pressure sensor, it will determine the inability to control your EVAP system properly.
Therefore, it will trigger the code P145C and you will see a warning light on your dashboard at the same time.
Additional Facts About the P145C Honda Pilot Trouble Code
Generally, the P145C in the Honda Pilot shows an issue with your fuel tank pressure sensor. But it is not very easy to access, which makes it tricky to solve. You may even have to remove your back seat to gain access to your sensor, which can be done via the hatch located on the vehicle floor. But there are some instances when you can take the fuel tank out to access your sensor.
Either way, these techniques could lead into a fuel loss or spillage. Unfortunately, these are quite risky things to do that may lead to more problems. This is why we highly advise taking your vehicle to a professional to get this done. Not only is there a need for specialized tools and equipment, but improper actions may increase the chances of a fire.
So, it is always good to have a specialist to take a look at it when you lack the right tools and techniques.
Now, the P145C code often comes with a number of symptoms. These include a faulty fuel tank pressure sensor, burnt or corroded wiring, and damaged electronic connectors in your EVAP system’s circuit.
There are also some symptoms that may come alongside these problems such as purge or vent valves stuck open, broken charcoal canisters, and leaks in your fuel filler caps. These can also trigger the P145C code. So, you may want to check these components when you see this trouble code.
Additionally, there are other symptoms to look for such as engine stalling unexpectedly or repeatedly, and a few other codes present other than the P145C.
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Conclusion
If you are suspecting a P145C problem because of certain symptoms, make it a priority to have your vehicle checked. You may notice common EVAP-related code problems. However, other symptoms may be present such as hard starting conditions, increase in fuel consumption, power loss at varying degrees, poor idling quality, or inability to idle.
You may also notice that your engine’s intermittent or sporadic misfire symptoms happen under certain operating conditions. And lastly, a bad smell of fuel may be noticed. In these cases, make it a point to get your Honda Pilot checked by a professional to get these issues addressed appropriately by the right person.