P0446 — EVAP vent control circuit / performance
The vent control side of the EVAP system isn’t behaving — often a vent valve, clogged vent filter, or wiring.
What it means in plain English
P0446 points at EVAP vent control (circuit or performance, depending on definition for your make). Unlike a pure “leak” code, this often implicates the vent valve or its control path, sometimes clogged with debris near the canister.
Common causes
- Faulty vent valve / solenoid
- Blocked vent filter or mud/debris at the vent outlet
- Wiring or ECM control issues
What you can safely check
- Pull companion EVAP codes; photograph them.
- If you recently drove through deep water/mud, mention it — vent filters clog.
Pull the code yourself (disclosed)
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A reusable Bluetooth OBD-II scanner lets you read the code and freeze-frame data before authorizing “mystery” diagnostics. One option: BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBD-II scan tool (BlueDriver/Levanta affiliate). Any capable OBD-II reader is fine — this is not required to use Fair Auto Shops.
When to go to a shop
Ask whether they tested the vent valve electrically and for blockage before quoting a canister assembly.
Typical related repair costs (U.S. national averages)
These are related repairs shops may find after diagnosis — not a guaranteed bill for every P0446. Ranges exclude taxes, fees, diagnostics, and your location.
- $210–$251 national average for purge valve replacement (RepairPal; estimates last updated September 3, 2026; excludes taxes/fees and location; source). Labor $65–$95; parts $146–$156.
Vent valves are related EVAP parts; exact vent-valve national averages vary by vehicle. Use the purge-valve range only as a rough sibling comparison after a written diagnosis — or ask the shop for their menu price.
Related cost guides: Purge Valve
Questions to ask before you authorize work
Use questions before you authorize a repair and how to read a repair estimate. Watch for patterns in spotting upselling.
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FAQ
What should I do first with a P0446 code?
Photograph all codes, note symptoms and whether the light is flashing, avoid clearing data until a shop sees it, then use an independent shop with a clear diagnostic plan.
More check-engine codes
P0420 · P0430 · P0300 · P0301 · P0171 · P0174 · P0455 · P0456 · P0442 · P0128 · P0401 · P0133 · P0113 · P0506 · P0507 · P0700 · P0741 · P0011 · P0325 · P0340 · P0335 · P0101 · P0299 · P0135 · P0440 · P0441 · P0010 · P0500 · P0121
Hub: How to read a check-engine code · Repair cost guides · Affiliate disclosure