Chevy Malibu P0442 and Crank Sensor Replacement - Mechanic Live Chat

Question: I have a P0442 code. How can I get that fixed?
 Mechanic: This code is a small EVAP system leak. Check to make sure the gas cap is tight.

The gas cap inspection passed and the MIL is on. Chevy malibu 2001.
 Ok. You may have a faulty EVAP vent valve, or the seal on top of the tank is leaking vapor.

How can I get that fixed? Can you recommend a place for fixing it?
 Testing of the system would need to be done to diagnose what is wrong. They will install a vapor pressure station- a tool- then they can find the leak. Any local repair shop should be able to fix it. This is a fairly common code.

 

Question: I was looking to remove and clean my crank sensor, but it seems I would have to remove the belt. 2003 Chevy Malibu 3.1 V6.
 Mechanic: Why do you want to clean the crank sensor?

At the shop, they were going to charge me $600 for a crank sensor and cam sensor. At AutoZone, the man said it may just be dirty...and it is.
 Cleaning a crank sensor will not help any. If it is faulty it would need to be replaced. This requires removal of the lower crank pulley.

Yeah, I was afraid of that. Thanks! Actually, I did wipe what I could reach with a towel and it has started ever since. Do you think that is just a coincidence? I got the Lectra-motive, but I thought I would need to take the sensor off to use it.
 You could try to spray it with some brake cleaner. That will wash any oil and dirt away.


Question: 2002 Chevy Malibu cranks over slow when cold can hook jumper cables up to it and it starts with no problem,
 Mechanic: Have you have the battery checked?

It shows to be good had 85% charge. Thought it might be starter replaced it son called said its doing it again.
 OK. 85 % charge is not a very good test. It needs to be load tested. Batteries can have a good initial charge, but drop way down under load. The load of the starter on a cold engine is much greater that on a warm engine- or warm air temps.

I took it my local Autozone had it load tested they said it was good but i am not to sure their tester checked right. I have come to that conclusion it is bad.
 Yes, if using jumper cables makes it crank better, then most likely the battery is weak. Yes, i would say it is bad.

Glad i found this site thanks for the help.