A short to ground in the purge flow sensor signal wire, often from chafing against a bracket or heat shield; A failed purge flow sensor that has internally shorted and now outputs a constant low voltage; Corroded or pushed-back pins in the sensor connector or PCM connector; A faulty purge solenoid that is stuck open and skews the sensor's flow reading low; A restricted or disconnected vacuum hose between the canister, purge valve, and sensor; A PCM driver circuit fault that pulls the sensor reference voltage low; Liquid fuel entering the EVAP line and contaminating the sensor element

DTC codes / Mazda codes / P1444

P1444 · MazdaEVAP Purge Flow Sensor Circuit Low Voltage

Q: What does code P1444 mean?

EVAP Purge Flow Sensor Circuit Low Voltage. P1444 on Mazda vehicles means the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected a low-voltage condition on the evaporative emission (EVAP) purge flow sensor circuit. The sensor reports the actual flow of fuel vapor being drawn from the charcoal canister into the intake, and a low signal tells the PCM that the circuit is grounded, shorted, or the sensor output has dropped below its expected range.

P1444 on Mazda vehicles means the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected a low-voltage condition on the evaporative emission (EVAP) purge flow sensor circuit. The sensor reports the actual flow of fuel vapor being drawn from the charcoal canister into the intake, and a low signal tells the PCM that the circuit is grounded, shorted, or the sensor output has dropped below its expected range.

SystemPowertrain

Code typeMazda specific

SeverityLow

Fix difficultyIntermediate

AreaAuxiliary emission controls

Symptoms you may notice

Illumination of the check engine light, often with no other noticeable symptoms
A faint fuel odor around the engine bay or near the charcoal canister
Slightly rough idle or a stumble when the purge solenoid is commanded open
Occasional hesitation during light-throttle acceleration
Failed emissions inspection due to the stored EVAP fault
In rare cases, a slight drop in fuel economy if the purge system stays disabled

Common causes, most likely first

A short to ground in the purge flow sensor signal wire, often from chafing against a bracket or heat shield
A failed purge flow sensor that has internally shorted and now outputs a constant low voltage
Corroded or pushed-back pins in the sensor connector or PCM connector
A faulty purge solenoid that is stuck open and skews the sensor's flow reading low
A restricted or disconnected vacuum hose between the canister, purge valve, and sensor
A PCM driver circuit fault that pulls the sensor reference voltage low
Liquid fuel entering the EVAP line and contaminating the sensor element

How to diagnose and fix it

Connect a scan tool and record the freeze-frame data and purge flow sensor voltage with the key on and engine running
Visually inspect the purge flow sensor, its connector, and the wiring harness for chafing, corrosion, or loose pins
Disconnect the sensor and measure reference voltage and ground at the connector with a digital multimeter
Check the signal wire for continuity to ground with the sensor and PCM disconnected to rule out a short
Command the purge solenoid open and closed with the scan tool while watching sensor voltage to confirm the sensor responds
Replace the purge flow sensor if wiring checks pass but the signal remains below specification
Clear the code, perform an EVAP monitor drive cycle, and verify the repair with a scan tool

What the purge flow sensor voltage really tells you

A low-voltage code often appears after a purge solenoid sticks open, so replacing the sensor without checking solenoid operation frequently leads to a repeat repair.
The purge flow sensor on many Mazda engines is integrated into the purge valve assembly, meaning a failed sensor may require replacing the whole unit rather than a separate part.
A pinched or disconnected vacuum hose between the canister and the purge valve can mimic a failed sensor by reducing actual flow below the expected threshold.
Liquid fuel from overfilling the tank can travel down the EVAP line and coat the sensor element, causing a low signal that clears after the sensor dries and the line is cleared.
The PCM may set P1444 only during a specific EVAP monitor test, so the code can reappear days after clearing even when the wiring looks perfect during a static inspection.

Can I keep driving with P1444?

The vehicle remains safe to drive because this fault affects only the evaporative emission control system and does not alter engine performance or braking. Avoid topping off the fuel tank past the first click and schedule diagnosis soon to prevent a failed emissions test.

Tools that help

Tools we recommend are in the Auto Veteran shop on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Guidance is general and written for Mazda vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.