fuel

Charcoal Canister

for 2017 Ford F-150 3.5L V6 EcoBoost · RWD

Editorial review:Chris Hackleman — Master Technician · 20+ years · Jeff Moore — Master Lexus & Toyota Mechanic · 20+ years

Difficulty

Moderate

Time

1.2 h

Tools

Steps

✓Expert-verified. Personally reviewed and approved by OLP's master technicians (Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — 20+ years each). Always follow the vehicle's factory service information and torque specs.

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the evaporative emission (EVAP) charcoal canister on a 2015-2020 Ford F-150 with the 3.5L EcoBoost engine.

Warnings

⚠️The EVAP system contains fuel vapors. Work in a well-ventilated area away from ignition sources.

⚠Allow the fuel system to depressurize by removing the fuel pump fuse and running the engine until it stalls before disconnecting any vapor lines.

⚠Use proper jack stands when working under the vehicle. Never rely on the jack alone.

Tools required

10mm socket and ratchetEssential

13mm socket and ratchetEssential

Torque wrenchEssential

Quick-disconnect fuel line tool setEssential

Panel trim removal tool set

Shop light or work light

Jack and jack standsEssential

Wheel chocksEssential

Safety glassesEssential

Parts

Charcoal canister assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
Vapor line O-rings × 4 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
Place wheel chocks at front wheels
Locate fuel pump fuse in the battery junction box (fuse 27, 20A)
Remove fuel pump fuse and start engine, allowing it to run until it stalls to depressurize fuel system
Turn ignition off and wait 2 minutes
Raise rear of vehicle and support securely on jack stands at frame rails
Ensure adequate working clearance beneath vehicle

Procedure

1
Access the charcoal canister
The charcoal canister is located on the driver side frame rail, forward of the rear axle. From underneath the vehicle, identify the canister—a black cylindrical component approximately 10 inches long mounted vertically to the frame.
2
Disconnect electrical connector
Locate the canister vent solenoid electrical connector on top of the canister assembly. Press the red locking tab and pull the connector straight off. Set aside to prevent contamination.
3
Disconnect vapor lines from canister
Using the appropriate quick-disconnect tool, disconnect the vapor lines from the canister. There are typically three connections: fresh air line (bottom), purge line (top), and fuel tank vapor line (side). Press the quick-disconnect tool into the fitting, then pull the line free while holding the canister steady. Note the routing and position of each line for reinstallation.
⚠Fuel vapors may escape when disconnecting lines. Ensure adequate ventilation.
4
Remove canister mounting bracket bolts
Using a 13mm socket, remove the two mounting bolts that secure the canister bracket to the frame rail. Support the canister with one hand while removing the second bolt to prevent it from falling.
Torque spec
Mounting Bolts31 Nm (23 lb-ft)
5
Remove canister assembly
Lower the canister assembly from the mounting bracket. Carefully maneuver it past any interfering components or frame members. Inspect the old canister for damage, cracks, or carbon dust leakage.
6
Inspect vapor line connections
Examine all vapor line quick-disconnect fittings for damage, cracks, or wear. Check that the locking mechanisms function properly. Inspect the vapor lines themselves for cracks, kinks, or deterioration.
7
Install new O-rings on vapor lines
Remove the old O-rings from each vapor line quick-disconnect fitting. Lightly lubricate new O-rings with clean engine oil and install them into the fitting grooves. Ensure O-rings are seated properly without twisting.
8
Position new canister assembly
Lift the new charcoal canister into position on the frame rail mounting bracket. Align the mounting holes with the bracket. Ensure the canister is oriented correctly with vapor connections facing their respective lines.
9
Install mounting bolts
Thread the two mounting bolts by hand to prevent cross-threading. Once both bolts are started, tighten them to specification using a torque wrench. Alternate between bolts to ensure even pressure.
Torque spec
Mounting Bolts31 Nm (23 lb-ft)
10
Reconnect vapor lines
Connect each vapor line to its corresponding port on the canister. Push each line firmly into the quick-disconnect fitting until you hear and feel a distinct click. Gently tug on each line to verify it is locked in place. Connect fresh air line to bottom port, purge line to top port, and fuel tank vapor line to side port.
11
Reconnect electrical connector
Push the canister vent solenoid electrical connector onto the solenoid until it clicks into place. Ensure the red locking tab is fully engaged.
12
Lower vehicle and reinstall fuel pump fuse
Carefully lower the vehicle from jack stands. Reinstall the fuel pump fuse (fuse 27) into the battery junction box. Ensure the fuse is fully seated.

Reassembly

Double-check all vapor line connections are secure and properly locked
Verify electrical connector is fully engaged with locking tab in place
Confirm no tools or parts were left under the vehicle
Ensure canister mounting bolts are torqued to specification

Verification

Start the engine and allow it to idle for 2 minutes, listening for any unusual hissing or vapor leak sounds
With engine running, visually inspect all vapor line connections at the canister for leaks
Use a scan tool to verify no EVAP system diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) are present
Perform an EVAP system monitor drive cycle if available on scan tool to verify system operation
Check that the check engine light does not illuminate after a complete drive cycle
Inspect beneath vehicle one final time to confirm no vapor leaks at canister or connections

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