Gekko

what car manufacturers NEED to do is include the error message in the digITAL DISPLAY written in PLaIN ENGLISH!!!!

Nikolashka

No , it's not. 446 is an EVAP code. The fact that it starts with 4 indicates that it's not a powertrain code.
446 is EVAP Vent control circuit malfunction. Most of the times this ends up as a drain valve (a.k.a. air valve, vent valve) failure, or the wiring leading to it. Don't forget, the valve itself is part of the electrical circuit and many people think that the discription of the code means problems with wiring only.That's wrong.Many times it's the component itself.
Chances are you're gonna end up replacing a drain valve.
You must've nad it fixed by now, what was the score, anywais ??

dminott

Since these code readers are expensive, and may only be needed once or twice during the life of the vehicle, maybe we should "band together" and work out a way to lend or rent a reader to forum members! I'm sure there are others, more clever than I, that could set up such an arrangement!

Dave

khhoang

Dave, Autozones in my area do the CEL code read for FREE.

dminott

Thanks for the tip! I've already located one nearby and will visit them tomorrow.
I've also just been visited by the dual idiot light problem. It may just be coincidence, but the temperature dropped to 5 degrees above last night...
Also, do you know of a way to easily test the O2 sensor? If that turns out to be my problem, I suspect that I can change it myself. I see reasonable prices for Bosch replacements on the internet.

Thanks again,

Dave

Trexus

Last Tuesday my check engine light turned on and I took it to Lexus of Westminster and I needed to replace my vacuum switch valve (part# 90910-12271) and now my 1996 ES 300 is fine...I give major props to Lexus of Westminster...