What is the purpose of an EVAP canister?

The purpose of an EVAP canister is to store fuel tank vapors. This component is part of the Evaporative Emission Control System (EVAP) designed to prevent fuel vapors from escaping into the atmosphere. The canister typically contains activated charcoal, which adsorbs the vapors coming from the fuel tank. During the operation of the engine, these vapors are purged from the canister and introduced back into the intake manifold to be burned as fuel, thereby enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing emissions.

Other options, while related to vehicle function, do not describe the role of the EVAP canister. Storing engine oil pertains to the oil sump, filtering air entering the engine is the responsibility of the air filter, and regulating fuel pressure is managed by the fuel pressure regulator. Each of these components has a distinct role that supports the overall function of the vehicle, but only the EVAP canister directly addresses the management of fuel vapors.