AutoCodesNissan – P1446 2003 Nissan Altima Sedan

P1446 2003 Nissan Altima Sedan Code - EVAP Canister Vent Control Valve Close

Quick Answer

The EVAP canister vent control valve is located on the EVAP canister and is used to seal the canister vent. Common causes include Faulty EVAP Pressure Sensor, EVAP Pressure Sensor harness is open or shorted, EVAP Pressure Sensor 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
P1446 2003 Nissan Altima Sedan indicates EVAP Canister Vent Control Valve Close.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty EVAP Pressure Sensor, EVAP Pressure Sensor harness is open or shorted, EVAP Pressure Sensor 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.
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Code Popularity 3,901
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Aug 22, 2019
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Code P1446 2003 Nissan Altima Sedan Description

The 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. When the vent is closed, under normal purge conditions, the evaporative emission control system is depressurized and allows EVAP Control System (Small Leak) diagnosis.
OBDII Code P1446 2003 Nissan Altima Sedan - EVAP Canister Vent Control Valve Close - AutoCodes.com
P1446 2003 Nissan Altima Sedan Code - EVAP Canister Vent Control Valve Close

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1446 2003 Nissan Altima Sedan?

  • Faulty EVAP Pressure Sensor
  • EVAP Pressure Sensor harness is open or shorted
  • EVAP Pressure Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
  • Blocked rubber tube to EVAP canister vent control valve
  • EVAP Water separator
  • EVAP canister is saturated with water
  • Faulty EVAP canister vent control valve

How to Fix the DTC P1446 2003 Nissan Altima Sedan?

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 P1446 2003 Nissan Altima Sedan 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 P1446 2003 Nissan Altima Sedan Code

1. What does the OBDII code P1446 mean on a 2003 Nissan Altima Sedan?

P1446 indicates a malfunction in the EVAP Canister Vent Control Valve, which is part of the Evaporative Emission Control System (EVAP).

2. What are the symptoms of code P1446 in a 2003 Nissan Altima?

Common symptoms include the check engine light turning on, potential fuel odor near the vehicle, and possibly a failed emissions test.

3. What causes a P1446 code on a 2003 Nissan Altima Sedan?

The code can be caused by a stuck or clogged vent control valve, damaged wiring or connectors, or a faulty EVAP canister.

4. How does the EVAP Canister Vent Control Valve work?

It regulates the release of fuel vapors from the EVAP system to the engine for combustion, helping reduce emissions.

5. Can I drive my 2003 Nissan Altima with a P1446 code?

Yes, you can drive the car, but it’s best to fix the issue promptly to avoid potential damage to the EVAP system and to pass emissions inspections.

6. How can I diagnose the P1446 code on my Nissan Altima?

Start by inspecting the vent control valve for clogs or damage, checking wiring connections, and using a scan tool to perform an EVAP system test.

7. What is the most common fix for a P1446 code?

Replacing the faulty EVAP canister vent control valve is the most common solution.

8. How much does it cost to repair a P1446 code on a 2003 Nissan Altima?

The repair cost typically ranges from $150 to $300, depending on labor rates and whether additional components are damaged.

9. Can a clogged EVAP canister cause the P1446 code?

Yes, a clogged EVAP canister can restrict airflow and trigger the P1446 code.

10. Will clearing the P1446 code with a scan tool fix the problem?

Clearing the code will turn off the check engine light temporarily, but the issue will likely return unless the underlying problem is resolved.

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