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Technician A states a loose fuel cap could illuminate the MIL. Technician B says that a loose fuel cap could cause a B0320 diagnostic trouble code. Which technician is correct?

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Final answer:

Technician A is correct that a loose fuel cap can illuminate the MIL as it compromises the evaporative emissions system, triggering an error. Technician B's mention of a B0320 diagnostic trouble code seems incorrect as it does not follow the standard format for such codes related to fuel system issues.

Step-by-step explanation:

When discussing the possibility of a loose fuel cap causing the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) to illuminate, it is important to understand that the fuel system in a car is part of the evaporative emissions system. This system is designed to capture any fuel vapors before they can be released into the atmosphere. If a fuel cap is loose or faulty, it can allow fuel vapors to escape, which will likely trigger the MIL, often referred to as the check engine light.

Technician A is correct in stating that a loose fuel cap could cause the MIL to illuminate. This is because modern vehicles are equipped with On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD-II) systems that monitor the integrity of the fuel system, including the seal provided by the fuel cap.

As for Technician B's claim regarding a B0320 diagnostic trouble code, this seems to be incorrect or a potential typo. Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) typically follow a standardized format, and a code like P0420 would be more consistent with a catalytic converter efficiency issue. If the issue was related to the fuel cap or evaporative emissions system, you would expect to see a code starting with P04XX, specifically codes like P0440 through P0459, which are related to evaporative emission control system malfunctions.

Therefore, only Technician A is correct in stating that a loose fuel cap could lead to the MIL being turned on.

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