P0446 on Mazda
Evaporative Emission Control System Vent Control Circuit
P0446 on Mazda vehicles indicates evaporative emission control system vent control circuit. Au7o has documented this code across 2 Mazda models — most commonly on Mazda3, Mazda5. This emissions code points to a problem in the evaporative emission (EVAP) system's vent control circuit, which manages the vent valve that lets the charcoal canister breathe and seals it during leak tests. The EVAP system captures fuel vapors from the tank to keep them out of the atmosphere, and the vent valve must open and close on command for the system to work and self-test. The code sets when the engine computer detects an electrical or performance fault with this vent valve or its circuit. It usually causes only a check engine light with no driveability change, but it does prevent proper EVAP leak monitoring. Typical repair costs on Mazda range from $80 to $1,800, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of P0446
- •Faulty EVAP vent control valve (solenoid)
- •Wiring or connector fault in the vent valve circuit
- •Vent valve clogged with dirt, debris, or spider webs
- •Damaged or corroded vent valve connector
- •Blocked or pinched vent hose or filter
- •Faulty charcoal canister assembly
- •Faulty engine control module driver circuit
P0446 on Mazda by Model
Mazda Mazda3(1 issue)
- EVAP Purge Valve Failure and Fuel Odor2014-2018
Third-generation Mazda3 models with the SkyActiv 2.0L and 2.5L engines experience premature EVAP canister purge valve failure. The valve can stick open, flooding the engine with fuel vapors and causing rough idle, stalling, and a strong fuel smell. Conversely, a stuck-closed valve prevents the EVAP system from purging, triggering check engine lights for evaporative system leak codes.
Mazda Mazda5(1 issue)
- A/C Evaporator Core Leak2006-2015
The A/C evaporator core in the Mazda5 develops pinhole leaks from internal corrosion, causing refrigerant loss. The evaporator is located behind the dashboard, making replacement extremely labor-intensive. Corrosion is accelerated by moisture trapped in the cabin air filter area and infrequent cabin filter replacement.
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View P0446 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0446 mean on Mazda?▼
P0446 stands for "Evaporative Emission Control System Vent Control Circuit." This emissions code points to a problem in the evaporative emission (EVAP) system's vent control circuit, which manages the vent valve that lets the charcoal canister breathe and seals it during leak tests. The EVAP system captures fuel vapors from the tank to keep them out of the atmosphere, and the vent valve must open and close on command for the system to work and self-test. The code sets when the engine computer detects an electrical or performance fault with this vent valve or its circuit. It usually causes only a check engine light with no driveability change, but it does prevent proper EVAP leak monitoring. On Mazda specifically, this code is documented across 2 models.
What causes P0446 on Mazda vehicles?▼
Common causes on Mazda: Faulty EVAP vent control valve (solenoid), Wiring or connector fault in the vent valve circuit, Vent valve clogged with dirt, debris, or spider webs, Damaged or corroded vent valve connector, Blocked or pinched vent hose or filter. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P0446 on a Mazda?▼
Repair costs on Mazda range from $80 to $1,800, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Mazda models have P0446 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0446 on 2 Mazda models: Mazda3, Mazda5.