AutoCodes – Infiniti – P0446 Infiniti

P0446 Infiniti Code - Evaporative System Canister Vent Control Valve Circuit

Quick Answer

The Evaporative System (EVAP) canister vent control valve is located on the EVAP canister and is used to seal the canister vent. Common causes include Missing Fuel cap, Incorrect fuel filler cap used, Fuel filler cap remains open or fails to close. 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: P0446 Infiniti indicates Evaporative System Canister Vent Control Valve Circuit.
Common causes: Common causes include Missing Fuel cap, Incorrect fuel filler cap used, Fuel filler cap remains open or fails to close.
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 12,982

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Low (Monitor) (1 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 14, 2020

Description
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Guide
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0446 Infiniti Description

The Evaporative System (EVAP) canister vent control valve is located on the EVAP canister and is used to seal the canister vent.
This solenoid valve responds to signals from the Engine Control Module (ECM). When the ECM sends an ON signal, the coil in the solenoid valve is energized. A plunger will then move to seal the canister vent. The ability to seal the vent is necessary for the on board diagnosis of other evaporative emission control system components.
This solenoid valve is used only for diagnosis, and usually remains opened.

OBDII Code P0446 Infiniti - Evaporative System Canister Vent Control Valve Circuit - AutoCodes.com — P0446 Infiniti Code - Evaporative System Canister Vent Control Valve Circuit

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0446 Infiniti?

Missing Fuel cap
Incorrect fuel filler cap used
Fuel filler cap remains open or fails to close
Foreign matter caught in fuel filler cap
Vent control valve harness is open or shorted
Vent control valve circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty vent control valve

How to Fix the DTC P0446 Infiniti?

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 does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

Before replacing any parts, try re-tighten the gas cap and clearing the code. If the cap or cap seal is damage replaced cap and clear the code.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0446 Infiniti 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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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 P0446 Infiniti Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0446 mean for an Infiniti?

P0446 indicates a malfunction in the evaporative emission system (EVAP), specifically related to the canister vent control valve circuit.

2. What are common symptoms of code P0446 in an Infiniti?

Symptoms include an illuminated check engine light, possible fuel odor, and, in some cases, reduced fuel efficiency or difficulty refueling.

3. What causes the P0446 code to appear on an Infiniti?

Common causes include a faulty canister vent control valve, damaged wiring or connectors, a clogged EVAP canister, or a malfunctioning EVAP pressure sensor.

4. Can I drive my Infiniti with a P0446 code?

While the car may be drivable, ignoring the issue can lead to fuel vapor leaks, potential emissions test failure, and long-term system damage.

5. How is the P0446 code diagnosed on an Infiniti?

A technician will use a scan tool to confirm the code, inspect the canister vent control valve and wiring, and perform a smoke test to check for leaks in the EVAP system.

6. How do I fix the P0446 code on my Infiniti?

Repairs may include replacing the canister vent control valve, repairing damaged wiring, cleaning or replacing the EVAP canister, or replacing the EVAP pressure sensor.

7. How much does it cost to fix the P0446 code on an Infiniti?

Repair costs vary but typically range from $150 to $400, depending on the specific issue and labor rates.

8. What tools are needed to fix the P0446 code on an Infiniti?

Common tools include a diagnostic scan tool, multimeter for electrical testing, and potentially a smoke machine to detect leaks.

9. How can I prevent the P0446 code from recurring on my Infiniti?

Regular maintenance of the EVAP system, avoiding overfilling the gas tank, and promptly addressing check engine light issues can help prevent this code.

10. Can a loose gas cap cause the P0446 code on an Infiniti?

A loose gas cap is unlikely to trigger P0446 directly, but it can cause other EVAP-related codes. Always check the gas cap as part of troubleshooting.