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P24C1 code meaning

EVAP System Leak Detection Pump Switching Valve Performance/Stuck Off

Powertrain system Generic code P24xx codes Check engine light

What P24C1 means

P24C1 means the switching valve does not respond when commanded, so the vent path stays where it was. Mitsubishi's 2023 Outlander PHEV recognises this after the reference measurement of the engine-off leak test: energising the valve should change the canister pressure, and if the difference to the first or second reference value stays below a limit for 10 s, the code is stored. Mitsubishi calls this valve stuck open and first rules out P24BE or P24BF, since a dead circuit looks the same from the pressure side. The fuel door locks and a refuelling-system message appears, but purge stays permitted. The fix is usually the complete leak check module. Stuck in the energised position is P24C0.

P24C1 at a glance

  • Check engine lightYes, usually on
  • Emissions testCan fail
  • Limp modeNot expected
  • Repair difficultyMedium
  • Typical labor0.5 to 2 hours
  • Clears after repairAfter a drive cycle

Symptoms of P24C1

  • Malfunction indicator lamp on
  • Fuel filler door does not open
  • EVAP readiness not set

Common causes of P24C1

  • Most likelySwitching valve stuck in rest position inside the module
  • PossibleOpen or shorted valve circuit so the valve never moves
  • Less likelyDirt or water from the vent line jamming the valve seat

Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.

Parts involved

EVAP leak detection pump switching valve

What each part of P24C1 means

PPowertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission.
2Generic code (second SAE range): it means the same on every make.
4Area: auxiliary emission controls (catalytic converter, EGR, EVAP).
C1The exact fault in that area.

What to do next

  • Note P24C1 and any other codes stored with it: several codes together often point to one cause.
  • Check for loose connectors and damaged wiring around the parts the code names.
  • Check open recalls for your car: some faults are fixed for free by the dealer. Enter your VIN.
  • Clear the code only after the repair. If it comes back, the fault is still there.

Buying a used car? Scan it for stored codes before you pay. A recently cleared memory can hide a problem.

Questions about P24C1

What does P24C1 mean?

P24C1 means "EVAP System Leak Detection Pump Switching Valve Performance/Stuck Off". P24C1 means the switching valve does not respond when commanded, so the vent path stays where it was. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.

Is it safe to drive with P24C1?

Usually yes, for a short time, if the check engine light is steady and the car drives normally. If the light flashes or the car runs badly, stop and have it checked.

Will P24C1 fail an emissions test?

Yes, it can. P24C1 is emissions-related, so most inspection programs fail a car while it is stored or while the check engine light is on.

How hard is P24C1 to fix?

Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 2 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.

Will P24C1 clear itself after the repair?

After the repair the car has to complete a drive cycle (a mix of city and highway driving) before the test runs again. Until then the readiness monitor shows "not ready", which can fail an inspection.

Look up another code

Technical content: OBDex open OBD-II database (public domain, CC0), checked 4 Nov 2026, edited for US drivers by the VinGear team.
Technical sources for P24C1