gas line was leaking with no code given, had new line installed with fuel filter as well,return line replaced and vapor line as well, now Im getting a evap code, return to mechanic, no leaks detected, code was reset, next day evap code came back on…what to do ???, no odor detected, mechanic offered a “smoke test” for $90, should I be charged for this??
Yes, this is a separate problem and the smoke test price is quite good.
Mr.Volvo_V70… explain to me how its a separate problem when all 3 lines were replaced and I didnt have this evap code before repairs
Drive the vehicle for a while.
When a code is erased it resets the readiness monitors.
So in order for the EVAP system to operate correctly may, take several driving cycles.
Tester
The drive cycle might solve the light problem. But the mechanic does not see any leaks where his work was done so he can’t be expected to do the smoke test for free. You can ask if the smoke test does reveal something with the work he did he should fix it for free.
The last smoke test I had done found a leak on the top of fuel tank under the pickup truck bed which could not be seen.
If Tester’s idea – which I concur should be tried first — if that doesn’t pan out, then discuss who should pay for the smoke test issue with the shop. Be reasonable about this, both sides of this have merits. I think you should be able to reach a compromise where they do the smoke test first, and if it shows the leak is occurring at a connection the shop messed with, they won’t charge you for the smoke test, or you’ll get a substantial discount. But if the leak is occurring at a place they didn’t touch, you’ll pay for the smoke test.
Even if it is leaking at a place they disturbed, while they won’t charge you for the smoke test, they are within their rights to charge you to fix it imo. It would depend on what exactly caused the leak. If it was an old and corroded connection and was about to leak anyway, and just disturbing the connection was the cause – they should bill you for the fix. But at least you’ll get the smoke test for free or at least a discount. That seems fair to me. You can’t expect them to be responsible for everything that occurs after they do a repair, other than to agree to continue working the problems until they all get fixed to your satisfaction at their normal hourly rate.
Fixing evap leaks is similar to fixing leaky plumbing. You got to start somewhere, and then fix all the leaks as they are discovered, one by one. And if you ever diy’er plumb, you know that fixing one leak can cause another leak to occur somewhere else. It is just part of the process.
Just finished fixing an evap problem. @GeorgeSanJose has the right idea. It can sometimes be a problem you chase to a solution.