New guy here (non-mechanic) - don't kill me.
My mom's 2013 Fusion SE (2.5L) started throwing a P1450 CEL code after a fill-up last month.
OBD2 shows: P1450 Unable to Bleed Up Fuel Tank Vacuum *
I watch several videos and read through many threads on this site, and I thought I had it resolved by replacing the Purge Valve Solenoid on the intake, but after a few miles of driving the CEL returned and the car stalls and is hard to re-start (very dangerous).
I initially tested the Purge Valve by unplugging the harness connector and the vacuum line and checked for vacuum with the engine running (and cold). Since it was sucking air, I replaced the Purge Valve and tested it cold (no vacuum). I assumed it was all good. The CEL reappeared a few miles later and the Purge Valve failed the test. I replaced it again and was all good for about 10 miles, then CEL and stall. Some more research indicated that the part is prone to repeated failures and the recommendation is to use only Motorcraft parts, so I got one and replaced it and also replaced the Purge Cannister next to the fuel tank (the other end of the vacuum line to the Purge Valve). Good for 10 miles, the CEL and stall. Always P1450.

Any thoughts on where I should continue to try to isolate the problem?

Thanks in advance, Steve

 

I read somewhere that there is a Relay associated with the Purge Valve Solenoid, but I am unsure which Relay to check (or how to check it,

Steve

 

Hi Steve,
You might consider checking the VENT valve for being plugged with dust/dirt.
When fuel goes into the tank, the vent valve is closed so all vapors go to the charcoal canister to be stored until certain conditions are met and the purge valve opens to remove those vapors and burn them inside the engine.
If in the habit of putting fuel into the tank after the nozzle on the fill hose shuts off can create problems where charcoal particles get into the lines and need to be blown out and canister replaced.
Suggest you check and determine exactly where that vent valve is located and make sure it is open when it is supposed to be and closed when required also.
When the purge valve opens to bleed off the captured vapors the vent valve needs to open or the vacuum will either cause the engine to stall or collapse the tank.

 

Thanks for the quick reply, Hanky.
This 2013 Fusion has a cap-less filler neck, so I opened the flap and shot some compressed air into what I think are vents on either side of the tube that runs to the gas tank.
On Day-1, I tried cleaning the flap using the WD-40 on the funnel cleaning method.
I attached a couple of pics of the cap-less filler neck...seems like there were many different versions.

I imagine that since the car stalled again, that my Purge Valve (#3) is toast.


Bad pic, but i shot some canned compressed air into the side vents.