[ox12345]

I have a 2000 323i with 254,000 miles. Getting code p0442 and cant figure it out. I replaced the gas cap erased the codes but it still came back. I also notice, and have for a while, a burning smell (smells like burned plastic or an electrical item burning) in the passenger compartment and perhaps more heavy in the trunk. I don't think anything is burning, because nothing has caught fire or blew up for months, but wonder if the smell can be related to the Charcoal Canister or the evap leak the P0442 code relates to.

Any ideas on if the smell could be related and what to do next? Help is appreciated. I need to pass inspection soon (NY).

 

[SPDSKTR]

Check your battery. I smelled that same smell and my battery was literally fried. Hell... it was swollen like it was going to explode, which made me pretty nervous.

I bought a new one and everything has been fine since.

 

[ox12345]

Good point and don't know why I would not have check it already. Only 2 years old (the battery) but worth checking. Any thoughts on P0442. Already tried a new gas cap.

 

[marcozandrini]

As for the battery, google "BMW E46 hidden obc functions." Test #9 will show you the voltages as seen by the engine computer. At idle the voltage should be about 13VDC. At 2000 rpm the voltage should be above 14VDC.

P0442 says that the evap system has noted a small leak. Yes, the gas cap is the usual culprit, but not the only possible culprit. It could be rubber hose that's gone bad.