What does the trouble code reading p0442 on a 2001 dodge van mean?

Answer 1

The vehicle's PCM (Power Train Control Module) has detected a leak in the vehicle's EVAP (Evaporative System), allowing fuel vapors to escape. The most common cause of this is the gas cap being left off after refueling. It can also be caused from cracked vapor lines that go from the engine to the fuel tank or a leak in any of the components in the EVAP system. If after a visual inspection there are no obvious causes of a leak found, a smoke test ca be performed at a repair shop to determine the source of the leak. It means a leak has been detected in the evorative system. Check all the lines that connect to the purge canister and the return fuel lines from the fuel rail. Also check the lines returning to the fuel tank form the purge (charcoal) canister. Hope this helps.