Charcoal Canister

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the charcoal canister (EVAP canister) on a 2012-2017 Toyota Camry with a 2.5L I4 engine, located under the vehicle near the fuel tank.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Charcoal canister (EVAP canister) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• EVAP hose clips (if damaged) × 4 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on a level, flat surface and engage parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks behind front wheels
3. Allow vehicle to sit for at least 30 minutes after last operation to reduce fuel vapor pressure
4. Raise the rear of the vehicle using a floor jack and support securely on jack stands rated for the vehicle weight
5. Lower the jack so the vehicle rests fully on the jack stands
6. Ensure you have adequate working space under the rear passenger side of the vehicle

Procedure

1. 1

   Locate the charcoal canister
   Position yourself under the rear passenger side of the vehicle. The charcoal canister is mounted to the frame rail forward of the fuel tank, near the right rear wheel well. It is a black cylindrical or rectangular component with multiple vapor hoses connected to it.
2. 2

   Disconnect the EVAP hoses
   Identify all vapor hoses connected to the canister (typically 3-4 hoses). Note their positions for reinstallation or take a photo for reference. Squeeze the locking tabs on each quick-disconnect fitting and pull the hoses straight off the canister ports. Some fittings may require a flathead screwdriver to release the locking tab. If hoses are stuck, gently twist while pulling.
3. 3

   Disconnect the canister vent solenoid connector
   Locate the electrical connector on the canister vent valve (usually integrated into the top of the canister). Press the locking tab on the connector and pull it straight off the valve. Move the wiring harness aside to provide clearance.
4. 4

   Remove the canister mounting bracket bolts
   Using a 10mm or 12mm socket (depending on your specific model year), 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

   Bracket Bolts20 Nm (15 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Remove the charcoal canister
   Lower the canister assembly from the mounting bracket. On some models, you may need to slide the canister out of a retaining clip or bracket. Maneuver the canister carefully to avoid damaging any remaining connected lines. Inspect the mounting bracket for damage or corrosion.
6. 6

   Inspect vapor hoses and fittings
   Examine all EVAP hoses for cracks, brittleness, or damage. Check the quick-disconnect fittings on the hoses for broken tabs or wear. Inspect the ports on the new canister to ensure they are clean and free of debris. Replace any damaged hoses or clips.
7. 7

   Install the new charcoal canister
   Position the new canister into the mounting bracket, aligning the mounting holes. Ensure the canister is oriented correctly with ports facing the proper direction (compare to photos taken earlier or the old unit). Insert the mounting bolts finger-tight.
8. 8

   Torque the mounting bracket bolts
   Using a torque wrench, tighten the canister mounting bracket bolts to specification in a cross-pattern if applicable. Ensure the canister is secure and does not move when pulled gently.
   Torque spec

   Bracket Bolts20 Nm (15 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Reconnect EVAP hoses
   Connect each vapor hose to its corresponding port on the new canister. Push each quick-disconnect fitting firmly onto the port until you hear or feel a distinct click, indicating the locking tab has engaged. Gently tug on each hose to verify it is securely locked in place.
10. 10

    Reconnect the canister vent solenoid connector
    Plug the electrical connector back onto the canister vent valve until the locking tab clicks into place. Verify the connection is secure by gently pulling on the connector.
11. 11

    Lower the vehicle
    Carefully raise the vehicle slightly with the floor jack, remove the jack stands, and lower the vehicle completely to the ground. Remove wheel chocks.

Reassembly

1. Double-check all EVAP hose connections are secure and properly locked
2. Verify the electrical connector is fully seated on the vent valve
3. Ensure no tools or parts were left under the vehicle

Verification

• Start the engine and allow it to idle for 2-3 minutes, listening for unusual hissing sounds that might indicate a vapor leak
• Check for diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) using an OBD-II scanner — clear any existing EVAP codes and verify they do not return
• Perform an EVAP system monitor drive cycle as specified in the owner's manual (typically involves specific driving conditions) to allow the system to self-test
• After driving 50-100 miles, re-scan for DTCs to confirm the new canister is functioning properly and the EVAP system is sealed
• Visually inspect under the vehicle after the first few drives to ensure the canister remains securely mounted and all connections are intact

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