P1046 Code - Cylinder 1 Oil Supply Solenoid Valve Overcurrent
Quick Answer
Multi-Air is an electronically controlled variable intake valve phase and lift system. Common causes include Faulty Variable Valve Actuator (VVA) Solenoid, Variable Valve Actuator Solenoid harness is open or shorted, Variable Valve Actuator Solenoid circuit poor electrical connection. 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
- P1046 indicates Cylinder 1 Oil Supply Solenoid Valve Overcurrent.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Variable Valve Actuator (VVA) Solenoid, Variable Valve Actuator Solenoid harness is open or shorted, Variable Valve Actuator Solenoid circuit poor electrical connection.
- 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 P1046 Description
The Multi-Air valve train has a mechanical camshaft lobe acting on a hydraulic pump located between the camshaft intake lobe and the intake valve. The pump provides oil under pressure to a two-way electro-hydraulic solenoid valve called the Variable Valve Actuator (VVA) Solenoid. The VVA Solenoid is electronically controlled during the specific intake cam lobe event by the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). During the event, the VVA Solenoid is commanded to either hold oil pressure or bleed oil. The Variable Valve Actuator (VVA) Solenoid is a normally open solenoid. The PCM provides 12 volts to close the solenoid. The position of the VVA Solenoid determines the intake valve timing and lift. This change on valve action is similar to creating a change in the camshaft lobe profile affecting the lift and duration of the valve opening. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the Variable Valve Actuator (VVA) solenoid current feedback level in voltage is out of range.
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1046?
- Faulty Variable Valve Actuator (VVA) Solenoid
- Variable Valve Actuator Solenoid harness is open or shorted
- Variable Valve Actuator Solenoid circuit poor electrical connection
- Faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
How to Fix the DTC P1046?
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 P1046 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
- P1046 Chrysler — Cylinder 1 Oil Supply Solenoid Valve Overcurrent
- P1046 Dodge — Cylinder 1 Oil Supply Solenoid Valve Overcurrent
- P1046 Fiat — Cylinder 1 Oil Supply Solenoid Valve Overcurrent
- P1046 Jeep — Cylinder 1 Oil Supply Solenoid Valve Overcurrent
Frequently Asked Questions about P1046 Code
What does OBDII code P1046 mean?
Code P1046 indicates that the oil supply solenoid valve for cylinder 1 has experienced an overcurrent issue, which may affect engine performance and lubrication.
What are the common symptoms of P1046?
Symptoms may include engine misfires, reduced performance, unusual noises from the engine, and possibly an illuminated check engine light.
What causes P1046 to occur?
Common causes include a short circuit in the oil supply solenoid valve, damaged wiring or connectors, or excessive resistance in the solenoid itself.
Can driving with P1046 damage the engine?
Yes, prolonged driving with this code may lead to inadequate lubrication for cylinder 1, potentially causing engine damage.
How is P1046 diagnosed?
A mechanic will use an OBDII scanner to confirm the code, inspect wiring and connectors for damage, and test the solenoid valve for proper operation.
How do you fix P1046?
Repairs may involve replacing the faulty solenoid valve, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, or addressing electrical issues causing the overcurrent.
Is P1046 a common issue?
This code is less common than many others but can occur in vehicles with electronically controlled oil supply systems.
Can I clear the code without fixing the problem?
Clearing the code without addressing the underlying issue may result in the code reappearing and could risk engine damage.
How much does it cost to repair P1046?
Repair costs vary, but replacing the solenoid valve typically costs $150-$400, including parts and labor.
Can a failing solenoid valve affect fuel efficiency?
Yes, a malfunctioning solenoid may indirectly affect fuel efficiency by causing poor engine performance or misfires.
Discuss the causes and fixes for P1046 OBDII Code
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