Toyota Camry P0446 EVAP Vent Control Circuit – Malfunction

Common trouble codes for the Toyota Camry Is the Code P0446. The trouble code refers to a number you receive when your Camry is plugged into an OBDII scanner. The trouble code P0446 indicates that the evaporative emissions control system is failing. This code is often found with P0420 or P0441 codes.

P0446: Evaporative Emission Control System → Vent Control Circuit → Malfunction

Normally, P0446 does not pose a threat to vehicle driveability. Certainly anytime the service engine soon light is on, it’s good to deal with it as soon as possible though. This is usually accompanied by P0442. Another common code for trouble is P0420. It often comes with P0446.

Toyota Camry OBDII code Symptoms

Most commonly, the P0446 code does not cause any symptoms. You will see the light on your service engine shortly, but this is typically it. It is possible to notice an increase in fuel consumption, but it is unlikely. You may notice a gas smell after using P0446. It is related to fuel vapors.

Toyota Camry P0446 Meaning

The universal OBDII code P0446 can be used to diagnose trouble codes. The code can be used regardless of the make and model of the vehicle. Technically, the code stands for:

Evaporative Emission Control System Vent Control Circuit Malfunction

The EVAP captures any fuel vapor in the fuel tank, and transmits them to engines intake for ignition. If the EVAP control circuit vent control circuit does not respond to the ECU it will throw the OBDII code P0446 and the service engine light soon will illuminate.

Camry P0446 Trouble code Causes

P0446 can be triggered by many factors in the Toyota Camry. The most likely problems that could trigger this code are:

• Vapor Canister Purge Valve– One of the most common causes of the P0446 code is the vapor canister purge valve. It’s really easy to replace. You will need to locate and take out a few clips.
• EVAP System Hose– The hose that carries the fuel vapor from the fuel tank to the intake manifold can begin to leak. This can lead to the code P0446. It should have a tear or a hole.
• The Faulty Charcoal Caister– The charcoal canister is often the cause of P0446.
• Fuel Tank Sending Unit– It is possible for the fuel tank sending unit to go bad. It can cause a disruption in the line pressure, throwing off the code.
• Fuel Cap– A bad fuel cap can cause the code to be thrown for sure. Often, you’ll get a message informing you that the fuel cap is off even when it is on. It may be worth your time to get that message and a P0446 to check if the fuel cap is working.
• Fuel Filler Neck– There is often a gasket where the fuel filler neck connects with the gas tank. It is possible for this gasket to dry, particularly if vehicles spend a lot of time in dry environments. When it dries out, the fuel tank can’t hold pressure anymore.

P0446 Diagnostics- Toyota Camry

To diagnose the problem with your Toyota Camry's P0446, a mechanic can use a variety of tools. The most commonly used methods to diagnose this code are:

• The mechanic will usually check for any additional trouble codes. A mechanic will usually check for additional trouble codes to help diagnose the problem. That’s because when they appear together in certain combinations, there will often only be only a few conditions that will throw any combination of codes at one time.
• Once the mechanic has determined the trouble codes associated with P0446, he or she will usually Take a look at the EVAP system. It includes the purge valve and line as well as the canister.
• A mechanic will examine the gas cap and verify that it is able to withstand high pressure. If you are getting a warning that your gas cap is off, even when it’s on, replacing it will more than likely clear this code.
• Monitor and check the pressure in your fuel tank.
• Following the inspections and repairs, the mechanic will conduct two more tests.
• A smoke test, and they’ll use a scan tool to confirm that the EVAP solenoids and valves are operating properly.

The Most Popular P0446 Fixes

Below are the top Camry P0446 fix requests:

• Replacement of gas cap
• Replacement for EVAP Line
• Replace charcoal canister
• Change the fuel tank

You should start with the gas caps and move on to the fuel tanks. This is because the gas caps are the easiest to replace and the least costly.

Here’s a great video on How to test your gas tank.

You will need to find the cause of your Toyota Camry throwing the code P0446. This should help. Feel free to add anything below. Enjoy your day.