P2478 Chevrolet Malibu 6 Diagnostic Trouble Code

P2478 Chevrolet Malibu 6 code definition:
P2478 is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic P-Powertrain Diagnostic Trouble Code for Chevrolet Malibu 6.

P2478 Chevrolet Malibu 6 or the Evaporative Emission Control System Incorrect Purge Flow is the set whenever the computer sees that there is a problem with the flow coming from the purge valve or the purge flow is not enough within the EVAP system. Other symptoms that may indicate this problem are when the Check Engine Light illuminates and when there is a visible lack of engine power.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a P2478 Chevrolet Malibu 6 diagnostic trouble code may include:

Lack of power
Faulty O2 Sensor
Poor acceleration
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)
Rough running engine due to misfiring plugs. Many engines have misfire codes to indicate the cylinder effected, such as P0307 for number 7.

Common Misdiagnoses

Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit Performance Problem
TP Sensor Learn Not Complete Problem
Low Coolant Circuit Problem
Cruise Control System - Vehicle Accel Too High Problem
Kick-Down Switch Failed Short Problem

Repair Processes :

Use the DVOM to test resistance and continuity on all system circuits if actuator and sensor resistance levels are in compliance with manufacturer's specifications. With the valve disconnected, the red voltmeter lead should be attached to the IMRC valve power wire and the black voltmeter lead connected to ground. If the engine displays a miss and there wasn't a code, determine which cylinder is misfiring. If the exhaust manifold is visible, spay or pour a small amount of water on each cylinder exhaust port. Water will evaporate immediately on good cylinders and slowly on the missing cylinder. If this can't be accomplished pull the plugs and check the condition.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code P2478 Chevrolet Malibu 6 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 P2478 Chevrolet Malibu 6.

Fortunately, P2478 Chevrolet Malibu 6 is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.