Engine-CodesSubaru – P1446 Subaru

P1446 Subaru Code - Fuel Tank Sensor Control Valve Circuit Low

Quick Answer

The P1446 code for Subaru vehicles indicates a problem with the Fuel Tank Sensor Control Valve Circuit being too low. Common causes include Faulty Fuel Tank Sensor Control Valve: The most common cause of this code is a malfunctioning sensor control valve, Wiring Issues: Corroded, damaged, or loose wiring connections can disrupt the circuit and trigger the P1446 code, Vacuum Leaks: Any leaks in the vacuum lines connected to the evaporative emissions system can lead to incorrect pressure readings. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means
P1446 Subaru indicates Fuel Tank Sensor Control Valve Circuit Low.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Fuel Tank Sensor Control Valve: The most common cause of this code is a malfunctioning sensor control valve, Wiring Issues: Corroded, damaged, or loose wiring connections can disrupt the circuit and trigger the P1446 code, Vacuum Leaks: Any leaks in the vacuum lines connected to the evaporative emissions system can lead to incorrect pressure readings.
Severity
High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?
Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 07, 2024
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Code P1446 Subaru Description

The P1446 code for Subaru vehicles indicates a problem with the Fuel Tank Sensor Control Valve Circuit being too low. This sensor is responsible for monitoring the pressure in the fuel tank and controlling the fuel vapor flow to the engine. When this circuit is reading lower than expected, it can lead to issues with fuel efficiency, emissions, and overall engine performance.

OBDII Code P1446 Subaru - Fuel Tank Sensor Control Valve Circuit Low
P1446 Subaru Code - Fuel Tank Sensor Control Valve Circuit Low

Common Causes of P1446 Subaru

  1. Faulty Fuel Tank Sensor Control Valve: The most common cause of this code is a malfunctioning sensor control valve.
  2. Wiring Issues: Corroded, damaged, or loose wiring connections can disrupt the circuit and trigger the P1446 code.
  3. Vacuum Leaks: Any leaks in the vacuum lines connected to the evaporative emissions system can lead to incorrect pressure readings.
  4. Defective ECM: A faulty Engine Control Module (ECM) can also be a potential cause of this code.
  5. Fuel Cap Issues: A loose or damaged fuel cap can cause pressure fluctuations in the fuel tank, triggering the P1446 code.

Symptoms of P1446 Subaru

  1. Check Engine Light: The most common symptom associated with this code is the illumination of the check engine light on the vehicle's dashboard.
  2. Decreased Fuel Efficiency: A decrease in fuel efficiency may be noticed as a result of improper fuel vapor flow.
  3. Rough Idle: The engine may experience rough idling or hesitation when the fuel tank sensor control valve circuit is malfunctioning.
  4. Strong Fuel Odor: A strong smell of fuel vapors inside or outside the vehicle can indicate a problem with the evaporative emissions system.
  5. Engine Stalling: In severe cases, the engine may stall or struggle to start due to issues with fuel vapor flow.

How to Fix P1446 Subaru

  1. Diagnose the Issue: Begin by using a diagnostic scanner to retrieve the specific fault codes and pinpoint the exact cause of the problem.
  2. Inspect Wiring and Connections: Check all wiring and connections related to the Fuel Tank Sensor Control Valve Circuit for any signs of damage, corrosion, or looseness.
  3. Test the Fuel Tank Sensor Control Valve: Verify the functionality of the sensor control valve by testing its resistance and ensuring it is operating within the manufacturer's specifications.
  4. Repair or Replace Faulty Components: Depending on the diagnosis, repair or replace any faulty components such as the sensor control valve, wiring, or ECM.
  5. Clear Codes and Perform Test Drive: After completing the repairs, clear the fault codes from the ECM and take the vehicle for a test drive to confirm that the issue has been resolved.

Cost to Fix P1446 Subaru

The cost of repairing a P1446 Subaru code can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue and the extent of the repairs needed. In general, the cost of parts for this repair can range from $100 to $300, with labor costs typically adding another $100 to $200. This brings the total estimated cost to repair a P1446 code to around $200 to $500.

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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.

Frequently Asked Questions about P1446 Subaru Code

1. What does the OBDII code P1446 mean on a Subaru?

P1446 indicates an issue with the Fuel Tank Sensor Control Valve Circuit, specifically that the circuit is running at a lower voltage than expected.

2. What are the common symptoms of P1446 in a Subaru?

Symptoms may include an illuminated check engine light, difficulty refueling, poor fuel efficiency, or a noticeable fuel vapor smell.

3. What causes the P1446 code to appear?

The code can be triggered by a faulty fuel tank sensor control valve, damaged wiring or connectors in the circuit, or issues with the vehicle’s EVAP system.

4. Can I drive my Subaru with a P1446 code?

While the vehicle may still be drivable, driving with this code can lead to increased emissions and potential fuel system damage if not addressed promptly.

5. How do I diagnose the P1446 code on my Subaru?

Start by inspecting the wiring and connectors related to the fuel tank sensor control valve for damage or corrosion. You may also need a multimeter to check for proper voltage in the circuit.

6. How is the P1446 code fixed?

Repairs may involve replacing the faulty fuel tank sensor control valve, repairing damaged wiring, or cleaning corroded connectors in the circuit.

7. Can a loose gas cap cause the P1446 code?

A loose gas cap is unlikely to cause P1446, but it can trigger other EVAP-related codes. Always check the gas cap first as part of your troubleshooting.

8. Is the P1446 code related to the EVAP system?

Yes, P1446 is associated with the EVAP system, which controls fuel vapor emissions to reduce air pollution.

9. How much does it cost to fix the P1446 code on a Subaru?

Repair costs can vary but typically range from $100 to $300 depending on whether the issue is with the valve, wiring, or connectors.

10. Can a P1446 code trigger other OBDII codes?

Yes, issues with the fuel tank sensor control valve can sometimes lead to additional EVAP-related codes, such as P0441 or P0456.

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