AutoCodes – Chevrolet – B0446 Chevrolet

B0446 Chevrolet Code - Right Air Temperature Actuator

Quick Answer

The Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Control Module commands the left air temperature actuator movement with one of three voltage signals applied to the left air temperature door control circuit. Common causes include Faulty Right Air Temperature Actuator, Right Air Temperature Actuator harness is open or shorted, Right Air Temperature Actuator circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is Low - monitor the vehicle and repair when practical. The vehicle can usually be driven if no severe symptoms are present, but symptoms should be checked before extended driving.

What it means: B0446 Chevrolet indicates Right Air Temperature Actuator.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Right Air Temperature Actuator, Right Air Temperature Actuator harness is open or shorted, Right Air Temperature Actuator circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: Low - monitor the vehicle and repair when practical.
Can I drive?: The vehicle can usually be driven if no severe symptoms are present, but symptoms should be checked before extended driving.

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Code Popularity 1,908

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Low (Monitor) (1 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Mar 11, 2021

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B0446 Chevrolet Description

The Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Control Module commands the left air temperature actuator movement with one of three voltage signals applied to the left air temperature door control circuit. A low voltage of zero volts moves the left air temperature door toward full cold. A voltage of 2.5 volts stops the door. A voltage of 5 volts moves the left air temperature door toward full hot. The HVAC control module determines the current position of the actuator by monitoring the feedback voltage of the left air temperature door position signal circuit. The feedback potentiometer position is a function of the actuator position. A high voltage indicates a full cold left air temperature door position. A low voltage indicates a full hot left air temperature door position. The HVAC control module controls the left air temperature door position in order to maintain the selected air temperature.
Whenever the HVAC control module keep alive memory battery power is interrupted, the HVAC control module will perform a recalibration of the actuators. During recalibration, the HVAC control module will drive the actuators to their minimum and maximum travel extremes. The HVAC control module will then calculate a travel range from this data and compare it to a calibrated range within the HVAC control module. If the actual travel range is not within the calibrated expected range, the actuator will be considered not calibrated and the DTC will set.

OBDII Code B0446 Chevrolet - Right Air Temperature Actuator - AutoCodes.com — B0446 Chevrolet Code - Right Air Temperature Actuator

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0446 Chevrolet?

Faulty Right Air Temperature Actuator
Right Air Temperature Actuator harness is open or shorted
Right Air Temperature Actuator circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Auxiliary Heating and Cooling Systems (HVAC) Control Module

How to Fix the DTC B0446 Chevrolet?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B0446 Chevrolet code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

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Need Help with the Code?

Get the B0446 Chevrolet code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about B0446 Chevrolet Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code B0446 in a Chevrolet related to the Right Air Temperature Actuator?

- Common symptoms include inconsistent or incorrect temperature output from the right-side vents, hot air blowing when cold air is selected, or vice versa.

2. What are possible causes of OBDII code B0446 in a Chevrolet?

- The code B0446 typically indicates a fault with the Right Air Temperature Actuator itself, such as a malfunctioning actuator motor or a wiring issue.

3. How can I diagnose the issue related to OBDII code B0446 in my Chevrolet?

- You can diagnose the issue by using an OBDII scanner to retrieve the specific trouble code, then inspecting the Right Air Temperature Actuator for any visible damage or testing its functionality.

4. Can I still drive my Chevrolet with OBDII code B0446 present?

- While the vehicle may still be operable with this code, it is recommended to address the issue promptly to restore proper climate control functionality and prevent further damage.

5. Is it possible to reset the OBDII code B0446 in a Chevrolet without replacing the Right Air Temperature Actuator?

- Resetting the code may temporarily clear the error, but if the underlying issue with the Right Air Temperature Actuator is not addressed, the code is likely to reappear.

6. What are some repair tips for resolving OBDII code B0446 in a Chevrolet?

- Repair tips may include checking and repairing any damaged wiring connected to the actuator, ensuring proper actuator alignment during installation, and performing a calibration reset after replacement.

7. Can a DIY enthusiast replace the Right Air Temperature Actuator in a Chevrolet to fix OBDII code B0446?

- While it is possible for a knowledgeable DIY enthusiast to replace the actuator, it may require accessing hard-to-reach areas behind the dashboard, so professional assistance is recommended for proper installation.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code B0446 in a Chevrolet at a dealership or repair shop?

- The cost of repairing OBDII code B0446 can vary depending on the labor rates and parts prices, but it may range from $150 to $400 at a dealership or repair shop.

9. Are there any preventive measures to avoid OBDII code B0446 from recurring in a Chevrolet?

- Regularly maintaining the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, promptly addressing any unusual temperature control issues, and ensuring proper system function can help prevent the recurrence of this code.

10. How serious is OBDII code B0446 in a Chevrolet, and should it be fixed immediately?

- While the code may not directly affect the drivability of the vehicle, it can impact passenger comfort and HVAC system performance, so it is advisable to address it promptly to avoid potential issues in extreme weather conditions.