P0442 Chevrolet Malibu 7 Diagnostic Trouble Code

P0442 Chevrolet Malibu 7 code definition:
P0442 is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic P-Powertrain Diagnostic Trouble Code for Chevrolet Malibu 7.

P0442 Chevrolet Malibu 7 shows up when there's an electrical problem that causes the fuel volume regulator to malfunction and open. It's quite an unusual problem and likely intermittent. Other serious codes may cause this code to pop up, and they may come with dangerous drivability issues that may expose you to safety risks and cause damage to the engine in the long run.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a P0442 Chevrolet Malibu 7 diagnostic trouble code may include:

Engine surge
Blown fuse (if applicable)
Lack of power
If the DPF is not cleared the ECU will revert to the "Limp Home Mode" until the situation is corrected

Possible Causes :

A large air leak at or near the number one oxygen sensor would also cause a lean mixture.
Faulty IMRC actuator relay (if equipped)
Rarely - faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM-programming required after replacement)

Common Misdiagnoses

Exhaust Gas Recirculation System Valve 1 Problem
BBV Sensor Circuit Low Voltage Problem
Transmission Engaged At High Throttle Angle Problem
Cruise Inhibit Control Circuit Problem
TFP Valve Position Switch-Drive Without Drive Ratio Problem

Repair Processes :

If you find a related TSB, the information will often help in diagnosing the code in question as TSBs are crested from many thousands of repairs. Look for missing ground strap or a rusty ground where the fuel tank is grounded to the frame. Check for damage to the wiring harness connector.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code P0442 Chevrolet Malibu 7 is not difficult to diagnose and repair. Thus, it always pays to have a qualified technician to look after your vehicle should this error code arise.

Diagnosing this code requires the engine to be in good running shape, without unmetered air entering the engine. If other codes that relates to misfiring condition, lean running or air entering the engine is present, then you must first fix those error codes before P0442 Chevrolet Malibu 7.

Fortunately, P0442 Chevrolet Malibu 7 is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.