Intermittent CEL following fuel fill-up
 

Hey gang,

Over the last several months my 2001 V6 Accord EX will pop a CEL within say 75 miles of filling the tank with gas, but only sometimes.

The issue started in August, the CEL would remain on for most of the tank (or sometimes into the next tank) of fuel, and then self-clear. In mid-September I took a 2,000+ mile road trip; the CEL popped about 40 miles after filling the car and stayed on for the entire trip and into the second or third tank after getting back home; then it self cleared again.

Yesterday, once again following a fill-up, the light popped after ~30 miles, and was the first time since the September trip where the light was on.

I'm thinking this is probably EVAP related as there is no issue with drivability or fuel economy (I mean geez, I managed 31 mpg on the trip while driving between 75 and 80 with the A/C cranking the whole time). Naturally, every time I have a few moments to take it in to have the codes read, the light goes out.

Thoughts?

Keep a OBD2 scanner w/ you and scan as soon as code pops.

I had problems on my MDX w/ fuel pressure sensor being intermittent.

No way to know what problem might be w/o code.

good luck

The code should still be stored by the PCM even if the light is turned off.

Ordered a scanner today.

You can go to Autozone and they will scan it for free. My 2 cents... did you tighten the gas cap properly? Needs to click 2-3 times. or check gas cap for hairline cracks in the rubber.

Yup, was all over the gas cap thing back when it first happened.

When you get the code pulled, if it's a P1457, suspect the EVAP bypass solenoid valve, common problem.

similar problem with a Forester.

I got a damp paper towel and wiped down the rubber gasket and the tank fill lip (to get a good seal).
Took couple days but the idiot light went away.

Evap codes
 

Remember it's never ok to 'top off' modern cars. Just go until the pump shuts off.

The extra fuel gets into the tubing that collects the excess gas vapor and can eventually ruin the charcoal filled evap canister.

Advice I often give out and a practice I follow religiously. :)