What Does P0446 Code Mean on Chevy Silverado and How to Fix

The P0446 trouble code is among the most often encountered ones for the Chevy Silverado. When you connect your Silverado to an OBDII scanner, you will receive a number that corresponds to this issue code.

Through this trouble code, individuals will know, the evaporative emission control system is malfunctioning.

However, there is nothing to be concerned about. I’ll go into great depth regarding the P0446 code and how to remedy the issue quickly.

What Does P0446 Code Mean on Chevy Silverado?

When your car’s computer detects a problem with the operation of the EVAP system vent valve, it will display the code P0446, also known as Evaporative Emission Control System (EVAP) Vent Control Circuit Malfunction.

The computer in your car handles the vent valve management is handled by your car’s computer which also controls the purge valve.

The computer additionally keeps track of any issues with the valve’s control circuit. In such a case, the P0446 code will show the vent valve itself or its control circuit may have had an electrical breakdown.

It is worth mentioning that to start the engine’s regular combustion process, the EVAP system draws all fuel vapor from the fuel tank and feeds it to the engine’s intake.

The P0446 OBDII code is generated when the vent control circuit for the EVAP control system no longer reacts to the ECU.

How is EVAP System Connected to P0466?

The EVAP system is essentially a set of parts that work together to keep fuel vapors from entering the environment.

Many may think that system designs vary, however, the basic components of an EVAP system are generally the gas tank, the gas cap, the vent valve, the purge valve, and the charcoal canister.

Fuel vapors are not released into the environment when the engine is off; instead, they are retained in the charcoal canister.

The purge valve opens once the engine is starting and the necessary circumstances are fulfilled, allowing the vapors to enter the engine where they are burnt during typical combustion.

The charcoal canister’s vent valve, which enables the entry of fresh air, is often left open. However, when the EVAP system in your car has to be checked for leaks, the computer sends an order to the electrically controlled vent valve to shut, thereby sealing the system. The system can then run its test at that point.

On most systems, an electrical issue won’t often result in a P0446 since, as was previously mentioned, the vent valve is normally open.

In certain circumstances, the vent valve would continue to be mechanically open, venting the canister continuously and setting other trouble codes.

How Serious Is Code P0446 On Chevy Silverado?

The P0446 code’s severity is not very high, however, problems with your car’s EVAP system must never be overlooked.

If you ignore an EVAP system issue with your car, you run the risk of damaging other vital car parts and seeing other similar codes.

To get repairs and a diagnostic as soon as the code occurs, it is recommended to go to a certified technician.

Moreover, you won’t be at imminent risk as a result of the P0446 error code. If this code appears, you can still use your car. The check engine light may not be the only thing causing poor fuel efficiency.

One should pay proper attention to the check engine light even if this code may not cause any life-threatening issues.

The P0446 code might show a variety of symptoms, so once you are aware of them, attempt to address the problem correctly.

What Causes Code P0446 On Chevy Silverado?

Your vehicle may suddenly display the P0446 code, leaving you to wonder what caused it. The issues mentioned below are the most typical causes of this trouble code in the Chevy Silverado:

1. Vapor Canister Purge Valve

Two things may occur if there isn’t a functioning vent control valve. A malfunctioning vent control valve may hold the vapors within even when there is nothing to move them, or it may not be able to sustain adequate pressure to do so.

2. EVAP System Hose

Leaks may start to appear in the hose that transfers fuel vapor from the fuel tank to the intake manifold. This will result in the P0446 trouble code.

3. Faulty Charcoal Canister

The part is susceptible to splitting or damage. The charcoal canister, which is the essential element holding fumes, is important to the EVAP system.

4. Fuel Tank Sending Unit

This seal makes sure that the petrol doesn’t leak outside of the tank and stays where it belongs within the car. However, the fuel tank transmitting device might malfunction if this unit acts poorly.

5. Fuel Tank

The P0446 trouble code might appear due to the fuel tank since it supplies the EVAP system.

6. Fuel Filler Neck

Pressure cannot hold if the fuel tank filler neck becomes cracked. This crack later affects the pressure coming from the vent control valve.

Other Symptoms of Getting P0446 Code on Chevy Silverado

Your Chevy Silverado may display a few warning signs of the problem if the code P0446 arrives. Sometimes, you may see the indications of this code as follows:

• The presence of the Check Engine Light.
• The reduction in fuel efficiency of your car. You might need to get a diagnostics checkup if you notice that you are stopping at the petrol station more frequently.
• There will be a smell of fuel. The vent control valve can’t shut itself, so fumes can leak out and give off a fuel-like odor surrounding your car. Your health might be in danger if you breathe in these gas vapors.

How To Fix P0446 Code on Chevy Silverado

One should first determine the source of the issue. There are a variety of tools to determine what might be causing the P0446 code in your Chevy Silverado. Here are steps on how things get done:

• You should check the gas cap before attempting to resolve code P0446. Problems with the EVAP system might have a variety of reasons, which makes diagnosis more challenging. The most effective strategy is to proceed from least to most severe.
• Replace the gas cap and then reset the code if it is malfunctioning, damaged, or degrading. Check for a leak if the P0446 trouble code continues to appear. To look for leaks, some mechanics employ a smoke test. In a smoke test, smoke is sent into the EVAP system to check for leaks. Clear the code after patching any gaps you detect.
• Checking the EVAP controls is the next step. They may become blocked, sticky, or struggling from a failing internal solenoid. You may verify the controls in several ways. A vent control valve blower may work. If it won’t open, it can be blocked or sticky.
• Check for the P0446 code once more after replacing any broken components and cleaning the ones that are already present.

Common Mistakes in Code P0446 while Diagnosing

When caution is not taken to complete all stages without skipping any, mistakes with the P0446 code might frequently happen. This trouble code may occur because of a variety of different factors, therefore it’s important to examine each one thoroughly to prevent a false positive.

The most essential thing to remember is to not ignore a loose or broken gas cap. Such ignorance becomes the most typical reason why the check engine light illuminates this code.

How Much Does It Cost to Fix the P0446 Code on Chevy Silverado?

The cost of diagnosing and identifying the issue, as well as the cost of replacing the parts, determine how much it will cost to fix the code P0446 on a Chevy Silverado.

Additionally, when you bring your car in for a diagnosis, the majority of shops will begin by calculating the work hours required to identify your particular problem. This normally costs between $75 and $150, depending on the labor rate at the shop.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion

Now that you know what the P0446 error code means. Thus, there’s no need to worry if your Chevy Silverado displays this code. To get rid of it, just follow the directions in this article.

If you are having problems with any of these changes, get a specialist to complete the difficult replacements for you.