P1441 - Service Engine

Okay, I am getting the "Service Engine Soon" light on my 1998 Olds Intrigue. It has about 91K miles. Hooked up the computer and got the P1441 code. I know it means "evap control system flow during non-purge". I just don't know what "evap control system flow during non-purge" means :).

Please help!

Thanks!

This means that the EVAP system is monitoring a constant change in pressure.
Most likely the canister purge valve or vacum valve is stuck open allowing engine vacum into the fuel tank.
Also if you have had any work done and the vacum lines were installed backwards, this will also cause your problem.

I just bought a used 2000 Intrigue with 75K miles. I took it home from the dealer and the service engine soon light came on. So I brought it back to have him fix it. He said his mechanic said it was a problem with the gas cap. Well, after he replaced that, the light still comes one. I am almost postive I am having the same problem. Is there any way this can be mistaken for a simple gas cap problem? Is it serious that I get it fixed right away? Thanks alot for your help.

It all depends on the code as to what the problem is...there are a few codes that are EVAP system specific.
First thing is to get a record of the code that is being set.
Any time an EVAP code (for a leak) is present, I highly recommend that the system be tested even if a gas cap is left loose...this insures that the system is in fact operating as designed and that there are no other leaks that may turn the MIL back on.