The APDTY 022618 evaporative emissions purge solenoid valve is a direct-replacement component that controls fuel vapor flow from the charcoal canister to the intake manifold in select 1995-2003 Infiniti and Nissan vehicles. This valve replaces OE part numbers 14956-31U1A and 1495631U1A, fixing common EVAP system faults including check engine light codes P0443, P0455, P0456, rough idle, and failed emissions tests.
Key Takeaways
- Replaces OE part numbers 14956-31U1A and 1495631U1A for select Infiniti I30, QX4, Nissan Altima, Maxima, and Pathfinder models
- Controls fuel vapor purge from charcoal canister to engine intake, critical for emissions compliance
- Fixes common trouble codes P0443, P0455, P0456 and symptoms like rough idle or fuel odor
- Brand new direct-fit replacement; verify exact production date fitment before ordering
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What Does the Evaporative Emissions Purge Solenoid Valve Do?
The evaporative emissions (EVAP) purge solenoid valve is an electronically controlled valve that regulates when fuel vapors stored in the charcoal canister are drawn into the engine intake manifold and burned during combustion. This system prevents gasoline fumes from escaping into the atmosphere, ensuring compliance with federal and state emissions regulations.
The powertrain control module (PCM) commands the purge valve to open under specific operating conditions—typically during closed-loop operation at normal operating temperature. When the valve opens, engine vacuum pulls stored vapors from the canister through the purge line into the intake, where they mix with incoming air and are combusted. When the valve fails, the PCM cannot properly control vapor flow, triggering diagnostic trouble codes and potentially causing drivability issues.
What Are the Symptoms of a Failing Purge Valve?
A faulty evaporative emissions purge solenoid valve produces several recognizable symptoms:
- Check engine light: Codes P0443 (purge valve circuit malfunction), P0455 (EVAP system large leak), P0456 (EVAP system small leak), or P1443 are common
- Rough idle or stalling: A stuck-open valve allows unmetered air into the intake, leaning the fuel mixture and causing unstable idle
- Difficulty starting: Excessive vapor purge during cold starts can flood the engine or prevent proper air-fuel ratio
- Fuel odor: A valve stuck closed or leaking externally may allow raw fuel vapors to escape
- Failed emissions test: EVAP system readiness monitors will not complete, or the vehicle will fail hydrocarbon (HC) limits
- Poor fuel economy: Improper vapor management affects combustion efficiency
Any check engine light related to the EVAP system should be diagnosed promptly. While the vehicle may remain drivable, continued operation with a faulty purge valve risks failing emissions inspections and may mask additional system faults.
Which Vehicles Does APDTY 022618 Fit?
APDTY part number 022618 is engineered as a direct replacement for OE part numbers 14956-31U1A and 1495631U1A. According to verified fitment data, this purge solenoid valve is compatible with the following vehicles:
| Year Range | Make | Model | Production Date Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1996-1999 | Infiniti | I30 | All production dates |
| 2001-2003 | Infiniti | QX4 | Production date 01/2000 - 03/2001 only |
| 1998-2001 | Nissan | Altima | Production date from 06/1997 |
| 1995-1999 | Nissan | Maxima | Production date from 02/1994 |
| 2001 | Nissan | Pathfinder | Production date 01/2000 - 03/2001 only |
Important: Several of these applications have specific production date restrictions. The build date of your vehicle (found on the driver's door jamb sticker) must fall within the ranges specified above. If your vehicle year falls within the range but was produced outside the specified dates, this part will not fit. Always verify fitment using the live compatibility chart on the product page or contact APDTY technical support before ordering.
Specifications and Part Numbers
APDTY 022618 is manufactured to meet or exceed OE specifications for the evaporative emissions system:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| APDTY Part Number | 022618 |
| Replaces OE Numbers | 14956-31U1A, 1495631U1A |
| Component Type | Evaporative Emissions Vapor Canister Purge Solenoid Valve |
| Condition | Brand New |
| Fitment Type | Direct replacement, vehicle-specific |
This valve is designed for bolt-in installation using factory mounting points and electrical connectors. The solenoid operates on 12-volt power supplied by the PCM and is duty-cycle controlled for precise vapor flow management.
How to Replace the Purge Solenoid Valve
Replacing the evaporative emissions purge solenoid valve is a straightforward procedure that most DIYers can complete in 30-45 minutes with basic hand tools:
- Locate the valve: The purge valve is typically mounted on the intake manifold, firewall, or near the charcoal canister. Consult a service manual for your specific vehicle's routing.
- Disconnect the battery: Remove the negative terminal to prevent electrical shorts.
- Unplug the electrical connector: Press the release tab and pull the connector straight off the valve.
- Disconnect vapor lines: Release the quick-connect fittings or hose clamps securing the inlet and outlet vapor hoses. Mark hose orientation if needed.
- Remove mounting hardware: Unbolt or unclip the valve from its bracket. Some applications use a single bolt; others snap into a rubber grommet.
- Install the new valve: Position APDTY 022618 into the mounting location, secure the bracket, reconnect vapor lines (ensure they click fully into quick-connects), and plug in the electrical connector.
- Reconnect the battery and clear codes: Use an OBD-II scanner to clear any stored trouble codes.
- Test operation: Start the engine and verify smooth idle. Drive the vehicle through several warm-up cycles to allow the PCM to complete EVAP system monitor checks.
If the check engine light returns after replacement, additional EVAP system components (such as the gas cap, vent valve, canister, or vapor lines) may require inspection. Smoke testing can identify leaks in the system.
Legal Use and Emissions Compliance Notice
This evaporative emissions component must be used in accordance with all applicable federal, state, and local emissions regulations. The EVAP system is a federally mandated emissions control system. Tampering with, removing, or rendering inoperative any emissions control device is prohibited under the Clean Air Act and may result in civil penalties. This replacement part is intended to restore original emissions system function.
Vehicles equipped with this part must pass all required emissions inspections in your jurisdiction. Installing this component does not exempt the vehicle from emissions testing or compliance requirements. If you are unsure whether this repair is appropriate for your application or location, consult a qualified emissions technician or your state's environmental agency.
Frequently asked questions
Will APDTY 022618 fix my P0443 or P0455 code?
If diagnostic testing confirms the purge valve itself is faulty (stuck open, stuck closed, or electrically failed), then yes, replacing it with APDTY 022618 will resolve those codes. However, EVAP codes can also result from gas cap issues, cracked hoses, vent valve failure, or canister problems, so proper diagnosis is essential before replacement.
How do I know if my Nissan Altima or Maxima production date qualifies?
Check the vehicle identification label on the driver's door jamb. This sticker displays the month and year of manufacture. For the Altima, production must be from June 1997 or later; for the Maxima, from February 1994 or later. If your build date falls outside these windows, verify fitment with APDTY support.
Can I drive with a bad purge valve?
Yes, the vehicle will remain drivable in most cases, but you should replace the valve promptly. A stuck-open valve can cause rough idle and poor fuel economy, while a stuck-closed valve may lead to fuel tank pressure buildup and emissions test failure. Continuing to drive with EVAP codes may also prevent detection of other system faults.
Do I need to reset the computer after installing the new purge valve?
It is recommended to clear diagnostic trouble codes using an OBD-II scanner after installation. The PCM will then run drive-cycle monitors to verify proper operation. If the fault is truly fixed, the check engine light will remain off and the EVAP monitor will set to 'Ready.'
The APDTY 022618 evaporative emissions purge solenoid valve delivers a reliable, cost-effective fix for common EVAP system failures in select 1996-2003 Infiniti and Nissan vehicles. By restoring proper vapor management, this direct-fit replacement eliminates check engine light codes, smooths rough idle, and ensures compliance with emissions regulations. Verify your vehicle's exact production date against the fitment chart, and if you have questions, contact APDTY technical support. Order APDTY 022618 today to restore your EVAP system and get back on the road with confidence.