heynow

iTrader: (1)

Hi folks, i have been repeatedly clearing the DTC P0446 code. The FAQs are a little unclear about this specific code. Could someone please tell exactly needs to be done?

ROCKART

iTrader: (23)

i have this same exact problem. it pops my CEL, i clear it, and two days later its back. the only code being thrown.

i asked around - various mechanics and a couple of techs at the dealership - and they said it was either the charcoal canister or the valve itself (sometimes it gets seized). either way this is an emissions thing. it will not affect performance or gas mileage. they were quoting me between 200 and 400 dollars.
because of that, its way down on my list of priorities. but if anyone has a quick and cheap way to fix this im all ears.


this is from the stickies which i assume youve read already:

0903
Diagnostic Trouble Code 0903 indicates a problem with the Evaporative Emission (EVAP) Canister Vent Control Valve or its associated electric circuit.

This part is used by the Engine Control Module to perform the fuel system leak test. Since it is used only for self-diagnosis your engine will run perfectly well despite the dashboard Malfunction Indicator Lamp.

The EVAP canister and this valve are located under the car, near the rear left tire. You might check to make sure all the electrical connectors in that area are secure.

There's no telling how expensive the repair will be, because no definite diagnosis has been made. Maybe you just have to re-plug a loose connector. Since the EVAP system is part of the emissions control system you might have warranty coverage.

xlr8r

I had that a few years back and swapped the vent control valve (bolted on the cannister) Looking at the old one I thought at the time that I could have freed up the solenoid with WD40 while actuating it with 12V. Once it's off you can see whats up.

Its 2mins with a 10mm!

Hammy

pics for the people??







And me!

ROCKART

iTrader: (23)

wait. what? explain more please.

you replaced the valve? dont that cost like $150 ? or did you just clean/release it? that cleared the code ???

heynow

iTrader: (1)

Yeah, that's what i've heard from my neighbor mechanic who's owned five 4th gens I just wanted to make sure. He said that i'd be better off looking for the whole EVAP canister assembly or the valve itself (if i'm lucky).

Thanks, i think that explains everything

heynow

iTrader: (1)

That's what my regular shop told me. But, i'm just tired of having to "vent" the damn thing manually by releasing the gas cap. Anyime that i forget to do that, i get a CEL that i have to clear. I'll definetly try to take the valve off and see if i can get it to work.

ROCKART

iTrader: (23)

my CEL comes on regardless of the gascap.

xlr8r

Yeah I bought a new one and yeah they reamed me big time.

Before I threw the old one out I was looking at it and could see lots of corrosion and gunk in the vent port compared to the new one. The coil still had continuity so I was kicking myself for not first trying to clean up the old valve.

rcintorino

I have the same code, only I replaced the EVAP control solenoid, if you get a user account at nissanhelp.com (it's free). you can actually download the shop manual (part of it) and it tells you Nissan's proceedure for fixing that code.

heynow

iTrader: (1)

IS it the solenoid that "valve" on the EVAP canister that we're talking aboot?

heynow

iTrader: (1)

anyone?

heynow

iTrader: (1)

Fixed it. The butterfly valve was stuck. The was some crap in there, cleaned it out, checked the the canister, and all seems to be good.

Luckily the solenoid is still good. If i drove a little longer like this, then it would freeze.

(phew!)

ROCKART

iTrader: (23)

can u put a pic up of this butterfly valve? or maybe a couple of pics?

heynow

iTrader: (1)

I'm sorry. But, i haven't taken any pics.

All i can say is that when you take off the valve (the one that has 2-pin wiring harness plugged into it as well as a rubber hose). If you look inside, you'll see butterfly valve. See if there's anything (debris) obstructing the movement of the valve. Clean it with some compressed air or carb cleaner. If the valve works fine, check for debris in the hole where the valve attaches to the canister. Also, check to see if all the hoses going to the canister are good. If you still get a code after doing this, then the solenoid is bad.