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Engine-Codes – GMC – P0446 2016 GMC Sierra

P0446 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Evaporative Emission Vent System Performance

Quick Answer

The P0446 code for a 2016 GMC Sierra relates to the Evaporative Emission Vent System Performance. Common causes include Faulty Vent Valve: The vent valve may fail to close properly, causing a leak in the evaporative emission system, Charcoal Canister Clogged: A clogged charcoal canister can prevent the system from properly capturing and storing fuel vapors, Purge Valve Malfunction: A malfunctioning purge valve can lead to improper fuel vapor flow within the system. Severity is Low - monitor the vehicle and repair when practical. The vehicle can usually be driven if no severe symptoms are present, but symptoms should be checked before extended driving.

What it means
P0446 2016 GMC Sierra indicates Evaporative Emission Vent System Performance.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Vent Valve: The vent valve may fail to close properly, causing a leak in the evaporative emission system, Charcoal Canister Clogged: A clogged charcoal canister can prevent the system from properly capturing and storing fuel vapors, Purge Valve Malfunction: A malfunctioning purge valve can lead to improper fuel vapor flow within the system.
Severity
Low - monitor the vehicle and repair when practical.
Can I drive?
The vehicle can usually be driven if no severe symptoms are present, but symptoms should be checked before extended driving.
What is this?
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 12, 2024
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Code P0446 2016 GMC Sierra Description

The P0446 code for a 2016 GMC Sierra relates to the Evaporative Emission Vent System Performance. This code indicates that there is a problem with the performance of the vehicle's evaporative emission control system. The evaporative emission system is responsible for capturing and storing fuel vapors to prevent them from escaping into the atmosphere.

OBDII Code P0446 2016 GMC Sierra - Evaporative Emission Vent System Performance
P0446 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Evaporative Emission Vent System Performance

Common Causes of P0446 2016 GMC Sierra

  1. Faulty Vent Valve: The vent valve may fail to close properly, causing a leak in the evaporative emission system.
  2. Charcoal Canister Clogged: A clogged charcoal canister can prevent the system from properly capturing and storing fuel vapors.
  3. Purge Valve Malfunction: A malfunctioning purge valve can lead to improper fuel vapor flow within the system.
  4. Fuel Tank Pressure Sensor Failure: A failure in the fuel tank pressure sensor can result in inaccurate readings and trigger the P0446 code.

Symptoms of P0446 2016 GMC Sierra

  1. Check Engine Light: The most common symptom associated with the P0446 code is the illumination of the check engine light on the vehicle's dashboard.
  2. Rough Idle: A malfunctioning evaporative emission system can cause the engine to run rough or idle inconsistently.
  3. Increased Emissions: The vehicle may fail emissions tests due to increased emissions caused by the evaporative emission system malfunction.
  4. Fuel Smell: A noticeable fuel smell inside or outside the vehicle can be a sign of a leak or issue within the evaporative emission system.

How to Fix P0446 2016 GMC Sierra

  1. Diagnose the Issue: Use a diagnostic scanner to retrieve the specific trouble code and determine the exact cause of the problem.
  2. Check Components: Inspect the vent valve, charcoal canister, purge valve, and fuel tank pressure sensor for any signs of damage or malfunction.
  3. Replace Faulty Parts: Replace any faulty components identified during the inspection to restore the proper function of the evaporative emission system.
  4. Clear Codes: Once the repairs are completed, clear the trouble codes from the vehicle's computer system to reset the check engine light.
  5. Test Drive: Test drive the vehicle to ensure the issue has been resolved and the check engine light does not reappear.

Cost to Fix P0446 2016 GMC Sierra

The typical repair costs for addressing a P0446 code on a 2016 GMC Sierra can range from $150 to $500, depending on the specific cause of the issue and the cost of replacement parts. Labor costs can vary between $80 and $150 per hour, so the total repair cost may also be influenced by the labor rates at the auto repair shop. It is recommended to consult with a qualified mechanic or auto repair shop for a more accurate estimate based on the specific circumstances of your vehicle.

What does this mean?

Tech Notes for P0446 2016 GMC Sierra

Dirt and dust intrusion into the EVAP canister vent hose assembly, resulting in restricted air flow, may cause this condition.

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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.

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