Rep Power: 0

A few months ago my check engine light came on. Threw a P1457 code, which refers to 8 to 10 possible problems with the EVAP system. Was 1st told to try replacing the gas cap. No luck. Then test for leak in the EVAP system. No visible defects. Smoke machine shows no leak. Smog & repair shop found and replaced a bad EVAP by-pass solenoid. Then they found the EVAP related part of the ECM was burnt out, and replaced the ECM. Then took it to the Honda dealer and after paying them for an hour of work, they were guessing that it might be a cracked manifold, but would require another couple hours of labor to determine for sure the problem. I took it home since the manifold is part of the exhaust system and not covered at all under the EVAP system's 1457 code. Each of the 7-8 times I've taken it to one of the three mechanic stores, they clear the code, I drive it home, but then the light comes back on within the next day. Additionally, I can now smell what I think is gas, fumes or exhaust (or something) when I'm in idle with the a/c or air vents open (not recycling)... even though they've confirmed no leak in the lines multiple times. It's been suggested it could be as simple as a worn wire somewhere hidden. But I can't pass smog in May and renew the reg with the check engine light coming on and throwing a code. Any ideas?

 
Rep Power: 189

Are you sure its not burning oil your smelling? A leaking valve cover gasket will cause a bad smell with the air going and at idle at a light. Its easy enough to check, clean the motor and look for oil leaks around the valve cover would take you 30 mins tops. As for the evap I would check the caniset vent shut off valve, also check the rubber o ring on the inside of the gas cap valve see if its all dried out and cracked. There are also some wires under the passenger side seat, pull that seat and check those for corrosion sometimes water can get in there and corrode the wires triggering this code.