C4 Tech/Performance L98 Corvette and LT1 Corvette Technical Info, Internal Engine, External Engine

Code 32 and locking gas tank caps

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Old Sep 9, 2003 | 11:24 AM
  #1  
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Default Code 32 and locking gas tank caps

I don't know if anyone else has experienced this before, but there appears to be a correlation between some brands of locking gas caps and ECM Code 32.

When I switched to a locking gas cap, I noticed that within two months after I purchased it, the Service Engine Soon lamp would illuminate on my DIC after about 20 minutes of sustained driving.

At first I suspected a faulty EGR switch or vacuum leak, but after assuming the sagely position of AZZ (always assume the simple) I decided to replace the cap with the O.E.M. one.

Guess what? The problem has been corrected. Apparently, the locking cap allowed excess air to be drawn into the tank, thus tripping the ECM code. If you're consistently getting code 32 and are using a locking gas cap, try putting the O.E.M. one back on and see if that fixes the problem.

For now, I'll keep the locking cap and use it when parking the 'Vette in remote locations away from home like hotel parking lots, car shows, etc... since I do like the increased protection it affords from fuel thieves and vandals.

I believe the cap I have is manufactured by Stanton. :thumbs: :chevy
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Old Sep 9, 2003 | 11:31 AM
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Default Re: Code 32 and locking gas tank caps (onedef92)

Thanks for the info. I have a locking gas cap, but never received any codes because of it.
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Old Sep 9, 2003 | 11:49 AM
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Default Re: Code 32 and locking gas tank caps (onedef92)

Mine also has a locking cap and I have never had any codes caused from it. :hurray:
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Old Sep 9, 2003 | 12:30 PM
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Default Re: Code 32 and locking gas tank caps (onedef92)

Strange. The only relation between EGR and the tank is the vacuum source (for canister purge). Wonder if you would get the code with no gas cap; ie, an open system. Otherwise, might want to check the vacuum valve for the tank by appling 15 in. of vacuum to the valve and see if it holds for 20 seconds.
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Old Sep 9, 2003 | 02:09 PM
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Default Re: Code 32 and locking gas tank caps (SunCr)

Should not be ANY connection. Code 32 sets when the EGR sensor reads an incorrect temp after the solenoid opens or closes. :confused:
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Old Sep 9, 2003 | 02:52 PM
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Default Re: Code 32 and locking gas tank caps (LaVidaLoca)

Yep, the only correlation could be through the vacuum system which would point to a problem with the pruge canister valve.

The tank needs to be sealed; possibly your OEM cap was leaking slightly and the new cap didn't which triggered the code 32. The correct fix would be to service the purge tank vacuum sol.


[Modified by 65Z01, 2:54 PM 9/9/2003]
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Old Sep 9, 2003 | 05:00 PM
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Default Re: Code 32 and locking gas tank caps (onedef92)

Sure its not because the weather is getting cooler? Since its cooled off a bit I have stopped getting the Code 32 after an extended freeway drive. Just a thought.

I wouldn't blame the cap right away. That code 32 seems to be heat related. :seeya
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Old Sep 9, 2003 | 09:39 PM
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Default Re: Code 32 and locking gas tank caps (Southern Comfort)

Back to my original statement. Even though the purge canister and the EGR use vacuum to work they are UNrelated. The EGR sensor is a heat activated switch that connects its wire to ground when hot. The ECM samples this input to determine if hot exhaust gas is flowing thru the EGR. I don't think anything the gas cap does will affect the vacuum line. The vacuum only opens and closes the valve on the purge canister. A vacuum leak can cause the problem since that will keep the EGR from working correctly.
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Old Sep 9, 2003 | 10:32 PM
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Default Re: Code 32 and locking gas tank caps (Davidsvette85)

Mine also has a locking cap and I have never had any codes caused from it. :hurray:
:withstupid:
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Old Sep 10, 2003 | 12:17 AM
  #10  
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Default Re: Code 32 and locking gas tank caps (LaVidaLoca)

If vacuum isn't available to open the EGR when commanded by the ECM (via the solenoid) the temp switch won't get hot enough and you get the code 32. That's why a break in the vacuum line at the junction of the purge and EGR solenoid throws the code (believe me, I've had it happen more than once and I keep a spare connector on my bench). My guess was that an open fuel system somehow took all the negative pressure out of the vacuum circuit somewhere in the purge or tank valve which is on the right frame rail. No real science to it since I didn't go out and drive the car with the cap off. I do know that if you have an OB2 car, it will run like crap with a loose cap and throw a code but I've never had to investigate that failure other than to screw down the cap and clear the code.
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Old Sep 10, 2003 | 12:24 AM
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Default Re: Code 32 and locking gas tank caps (Davidsvette85)

Mine also has a locking cap and I have never had any codes caused from it. :hurray:
:iagree: No problems with mine either.
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Old Sep 10, 2003 | 01:25 AM
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Default Re: Code 32 and locking gas tank caps (H P Bushrod)

Ive never had a problem :cheers:
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