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PO446 Fault Code on 2001 Chevy Venture LS: Can Gas in Charcoal Canister Trigger It?

Model: Chevy Venture Fault Code: P0446 Posted: 2014-07-21 20:20

I own a 2001 Chevrolet Venture LS and am experiencing a PO446 diagnostic trouble code. My question is whether having gasoline in the charcoal canister could trigger this code. I recently replaced the EVAP vent valve, but the issue persists. I believe the problem started after I overfilled my gas tank in January, with the code appearing just a day or two later. Any insights would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, John.

Related fault codes
P0446
Comments (3)
Anonymous 2014-07-22 06:46

Ensure there is 12 volts at the vent valve terminal and verify that the control wire is not grounded — a faulty power supply or wiring issue can mimic PO446 symptoms.

Anonymous 2014-07-22 07:36

A restricted or blocked EVAP vent path is detected during normal operation when the EVAP vent valve/solenoid is open and the purge valve/solenoid is functioning normally. With the vent valve open, system vacuum should remain very low unless there's a blockage. Common causes include: - A faulty EVAP vent valve/solenoid (stuck closed). - A kinked, pinched, or plugged vent hose. - A short in the EVAP vent valve driver circuit. - A clogged EVAP canister. If any of these conditions exist, DTC P0446 will be set. Yes, a gas-filled charcoal canister could contribute to this issue. If you have a hand vacuum pump, disconnect the hoses and apply vacuum to the purge solenoid and vent solenoid connections while keeping them open. Observe if there is flow — this tests for a functional vent path. Have you checked your vent hose for blockages? If it's clear, the issue may lie with the canister itself. If the canister passes testing, proceed to electrical diagnostics such as voltage and ground checks.

Anonymous 2014-07-22 10:03

Thank you all for the helpful advice. I now have a clearer understanding of what to inspect. Much appreciated, John.