Show notes
Critters in Cars: A Surprise Repair
“It’s like cheap underwear—it creeps up on you when you least expect it.”
This week, Ron shared a classic “Critters in Cars” story. A 2014 Honda Accord rolled into the shop with two unrelated fault codes: one for the throttle body and one for the purge valve. No connection between them—except that they were both on the same vehicle.
Turns out, the throttle body was filthy—carbon buildup so bad it gouged a ring in the housing. The fix? A new throttle body and a computer reflash. Easy enough.
But the purge valve? That’s where it got weird.
Even after replacing the valve, the car still wouldn’t show any change in fuel tank pressure during purge events. That meant the system wasn’t functioning—and Ron had a hunch. A closer look revealed chewed wires near the vent valve harness. Mouse damage.
Still, the pressure sensor wasn’t responding. The final clue? A tiny spiderweb inside the charcoal canister. Full of gunk. Blocked solid.
🛠️ The Fix: A new throttle body, repaired wiring, and a new canister. The car’s now running right.
🕷️ The Lesson: When check engine lights pop up, especially if there are multiple codes, don’t assume it’s all new. Rodent damage and long-term neglect often lurk underneath.
Ron’s takeaway? Drivers need to be more aware of their cars. Because what looks like a “just came on” light might actually be months of hidden trouble—and a mouse with a taste for wiring.
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