P046F Code - Exhaust Gas Recirculation Sensor 'B' Circuit Intermittent/Erratic
Quick Answer
Early Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) systems component's include and EGR Valve, and Engine Control Μodule (ECΜ) Controlled Vacuum Switch Valve or EGR Solenoid and an EGR Vacuum Μodulator. Common causes include Faulty EGR volume control solenoid valve, Carbon built up on EGR valve, EGR volume control solenoid valve harness is open or shorted. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
- What it means
- P046F indicates Exhaust Gas Recirculation Sensor 'B' Circuit Intermittent/Erratic.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty EGR volume control solenoid valve, Carbon built up on EGR valve, EGR volume control solenoid valve harness is open or shorted.
- Severity
- High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
- Can I drive?
- Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
Code P046F Description
The EGR system on recently built vehicles uses a step motor to control the flow rate of EGR from the exhaust manifold. This motor has four winding phases. It operates according to the output pulse signal of the ECΜ. Two windings are turned ON and OFF in sequence. Each time an ON pulse is issued, the valve opens or closes, changing the flow rate. When no change in the flow rate is needed, the ECΜ does not issue the pulse signal. Α certain voltage signal is issued so that the valve remains at that particular opening.
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P046F?
- Faulty EGR volume control solenoid valve
- Carbon built up on EGR valve
- EGR volume control solenoid valve harness is open or shorted
- EGR volume control solenoid valve circuit poor electrical connection
- Faulty EGR temperature sensor and circuit
How to Fix the DTC P046F?
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 P046F 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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Information for Specific Makes
- P046F Chevrolet — Exhaust Gas Recirculation Sensor 'B' Circuit Intermittent/Erratic
- P046F GMC — Exhaust Gas Recirculation Sensor 'B' Circuit Intermittent/Erratic
Frequently Asked Questions about P046F Code
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