HomeTrouble CodesP0468

P0468 — Evap Purge Flow Sensor Circuit High

Generic OBD-II · all makesPowertrain (engine & transmission)

P0468 indicates the powertrain control module has detected a voltage signal from the evaporative emission purge flow sensor that exceeds the calibrated maximum threshold. This typically means the sensor circuit is shorted to voltage, the sensor has failed internally, or there is an intermittent high-resistance connection causing the signal to float high.

Symptoms

What causes it — most likely first

1. Wiring harness short to power

The signal wire may be chafed against the engine or frame and contacting a voltage source, or shorted to the 5V reference circuit, causing the PCM to see maximum voltage.

2. Failed purge flow sensor

Internal short to power within the sensor can cause a constant high voltage output regardless of actual purge flow conditions.

3. Connector corrosion or damage

Moisture intrusion, bent pins, or poor terminal tension at the sensor or inline connectors can create abnormal resistance that drives the signal voltage high.

4. Open sensor ground circuit

A loose, broken, or corroded ground wire can cause the signal voltage to float high instead of returning to the proper low-reference level.

5. PCM input circuit failure

Rarely, the PCM's internal analog-to-digital converter or input processing circuit may incorrectly interpret a normal signal as high voltage; this should only be considered after wiring and sensor have been verified.

How it's diagnosed

  1. Visually inspect the sensor connector and wiring harness for chafing, corrosion, or exposed wires near the purge flow sensor and along the harness routing
  2. Use a scan tool to monitor the purge flow sensor voltage; compare readings to manufacturer specifications (typically 0.5–4.5 V)
  3. Disconnect the sensor and check the signal circuit for continuity to power or reference voltage with a multimeter to identify shorts
  4. Measure the sensor's internal resistance or output signal and compare to specifications, or substitute a known-good sensor temporarily
  5. If wiring and sensor test normal, check the PCM connector pins for corrosion and verify the PCM is receiving correct voltage at the input pin before considering module replacement

Code facts & related codes

SystemPowertrain (engine & transmission)
StandardizationSAE generic — identical on every make

Frequently asked

Can I drive with this code?

Yes, short-term driving is generally safe, though fuel economy may suffer slightly and evaporative emissions may increase.

Should I replace the PCM?

No. PCM failure is an unlikely cause for this specific circuit code; thorough testing of wiring and the sensor should be completed before considering the control module.

What is a purge flow sensor?

It is a device that measures the volume or rate of fuel vapor flowing from the charcoal canister to the intake manifold during the purge cycle; not all vehicles use this specific sensor type.

Will this cause my car to fail emissions?

Yes, an active P0468 will typically cause a failed emissions test because it indicates a malfunction in the evaporative emission control system.