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How do I fix the check engine light for the p0446 code?

Alton Alexander
By Alton AlexanderUpdated on June 4th, 2022

The p0446 code is a generic OBD-II code that is triggered when the engine control module (ECM) detects a leak in the evaporative emission (EVAP) system. The EVAP system is responsible for capturing and recycling fuel vapors that escape from the fuel tank. The p0446 code is often accompanied by other EVAP system codes, such as P0441, P0442, P0455, and P0456.

Users typically search for a solution by asking about:

  • error code p0446
  • p0446

1. Check and clean the EVAP canister vent solenoid valve and vacuum hoses

1.Remove the air cleaner assembly. 2.Remove the evap canister cover. 3.Remove the evap canister. 4.Remove the solenoid valve. 5.Clean the evap canister vent solenoid valve and vacuum hoses. 6.Replace the evap canister cover, evap canister, and solenoid valve.

2. Inspect the EVAP canister and EVAP canister purge volume control solenoid valve for proper operation

  1. Verify the system is in P0446 mode by verifying the MIL (message indicator lamp) is on and the P0446 code is displayed on the instrument panel.
  2. Check the EVAP canister purge volume control solenoid valve for proper operation.
  3. If the valve is not operating properly, replace the valve.

3. Check for blockages in the EVAP canister or EVAP canister vent line

  1. Remove the air intake and air filter cover.
  2. Check the EVAP canister for blockages.
  3. Check the EVAP canister vent line for blockages.
  4. Check the EVAP canister seal for blockages.
  5. Reattach the air intake and air filter cover.

4. Check the EVAP canister vent solenoid valve for proper operation

  1. Remove the front air intake grill.
  2. Remove the evap canister.
  3. Inspect the EVAP canister vent solenoid valve for proper operation. If the valve is not operable, replace the valve.

5. Check the EVAP canister purge volume control solenoid valve for proper operation

  1. Verify that the EVAP canister purge solenoid valve is properly connected to the EVAP canister. If not, connect the solenoid valve to the EVAP canister and verify that the purge flow is correct.
  2. Check the purge flow by opening the purge valve on the EVAP canister and observing the amount of air that flows out. If the purge flow is incorrect, the valve may need to be replaced.
  3. If the purge flow is correct, check the position of the purge valve by inserting a small object into the purge valve opening and wiggling it back and forth. If the purge valve is not properly seated, it may need to be replaced.

If the answers above didn't work then you should also try:

  1. Inspect the EVAP canister for leaks.
  2. Inspect the EVAP canister vent line for leaks.
  3. Inspect the EVAP canister purge volume control solenoid valve for leaks.