How to test and replace a Mazda 3 Canister Vent Solenoid, demonstrated on a 2012 Mazda 3 i 2.0L. This was part of larger troubleshoot for a small leak (P0442/P0456) that indicated a functional purge solenoid, but a problem with the aft area of the evaporative emission system (Canister Vent/Gas Cap/Charcoal Filter) in the vehicle rear. This part is known across the internet for its terrible accessibility. The fix is easy ONCE you remove six suspension bolts, and two shock bolts (4x/side, all 17mm, I bought an impact specifically for this job since it saves time and effectively removes the bolts; tighten with hand tools and a torque wrench).
Amazon Affiliate Links:
Parts:
-Vent Solenoid (For 2009-2013 Mazda 3 LF 2.0 VIN G) https://amzn.to/3ntJOX2
Tools:
-Dewalt DCF899 1/2″ Impact Wrench, Charger, 4AH battery https://amzn.to/3feFk3L
-6″ 3/8 drive socket ratchet wrench https://amzn.to/2JQdjhK
-Impact socket set https://amzn.to/3kxocH9
-Impact Socket Extension https://amzn.to/2Ivfsoh
-10mm solenoid socket https://amzn.to/2JQdjhK
-Alligator Clips https://amzn.to/3iq5dOI
-Needle Nose https://amzn.to/2ZuYBar
-2′ Breaker Bar https://amzn.to/3lCn4DI
-1.5′ Torque Wrench https://amzn.to/36DEA41
-Jack https://amzn.to/2IEl2Va
-Jack Stands https://amzn.to/32QoUcB
Torques (do NOT tighten w/ impact, use torque wrench):
-10mm Solenoid: All hand-tight
-17mm 6x suspension bolts, 3/side: 73-97 ft-lb
-17mm 2x shock bolts, 1/side: 59-77 ft-lb
CAMERA https://amzn.to/3i3bfVL
LENS https://amzn.to/3g2DX7h
TRIPOD https://amzn.to/2NB3MPE
FLUID HEAD https://amzn.to/2VriA7L
CAMERA2 – https://amzn.to/3d1w7su
00:00 Valve
00:20 Tools needed
00:41 Remove suspension bolts
01:24 Lower the subframe
01:42 Support the subframe
01:53 Valve aft looking forward
01:57 Remove ambient vent hose
02:08 Remove 10mm valve nuts
02:49 Remove cannister vent hose
03:00 Remove valve
03:15 Valve seal test
03:44 New valve install
04:29 Raise the subframe
Disclaimer:
Due to factors beyond the control of Oliver Porter, I cannot guarantee against improper use or unauthorized modifications of this information. Oliver Porter assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. Use this information at your own risk. I recommend safe practices when working on vehicles and or with tools seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of Oliver Porter, no information contained in this video shall create any expressed or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage, or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or from the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not Oliver Porter.
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Yeah when my check engine light came on and I did the OBD2 test. It came back to me as a P0442 code. I was like okay now what. So I looked it up and I thought it was my gas cap but I knew it was because I replaced it a week ago. So now I'm thinking it's my solenoid. Thanks imma to a bit a wrenching but I'm pretty sure this is the problem. After all my car is over 10 years old.
my key has a black flag on it like your red one
My girlfriends Masada 3 threw that p0456 code and it wasn’t for this video I wouldn’t have been able to fix it so thank you so much
Hey Oliver, Thank you for the video it really helped me a lot I finally replaced the vent Solenoid without a problem, your video was awesome, my 2011 speed 3 check engine light is gone..
Excellent video. I had P0442 and P0456 codes on my 2011 Mazda 3. After watching your video I decided to replace both purge and vent solenoids. Your suggestion for using an impact driver was INVALUABLE. Having never used an impact driver I watched a couple of YouTube videos on it and now I'm a pro. My only suggestion is that you should've mentioned that you'll need a couple of 1/2" drive impact extension rods to unbolt the frame. FYI, both solenoids cost approx. $115 with shipping from RockAuto. My question to you is: how long did your Mazda3 perform another small leak test before the check engine light cleared? The P0456 code said it's permanent and didn't clear after driving the car around for an hour. There's indication on searching the Internet that the small leak test takes a long time to perform before it clears the check engine light (if the problem is fixed).
Super helpful video; thanks! One observation: When dropping the subframe, the flexible brake lines are stressed. I couldn't drop more than about 2 or 2.5 inches max before the brake lines were at their limit. But that was enough to get at the solenoid. Thanks again.
Alot of work for my rusty mazda 3 with almost 200,000 miles and a slippy 2nd gear. Think I'll keep clearing the code til it comes back instantly and the just ignore it lol
Does that give you bad gas mileage
Hi! I have a 2012 Mazda 3 skyactive that looks exactly like this underneath and am also having an issue with the purge solenoid. My problem is that my solenoid connector wires were torn off about 8” from the connector (down by the cross member) and I have no idea where the missing section of wire should connect back into. Could you explain how/where the connector is wired into the wiring harness?
I have a 2012 Mazda3 and the gas tank does not hold any pressure, every time I take off the gas cap (which I replaced) I noticed there is no release of pressure at all. Could this be the part be defective ? I replaced the vent valve at the engine and still read codes of P0442 and P0456.
Great video, saved me a lot of time fixing my 2012 Mazda 3. Thanks for taking the time to do this video!
Dude, Thank you so much for the video that really helps I have the same problem with my 2011 speed 3 just one question what was the torque when you replace the 4 bolts
What is the 100 ft-lb limit on? It's cut off in the description. Thanks!
It looks like I have a similar issue. How much do you think mechanic should charge for that kind of job without parts?