Hi all,

Started the path on car maintenance/ repair. Cleaned out the motor blower (old mice nest), changed both air filters and power steering fluid. Car seems alright but I am noticing a P0446 error code - Evaporative Emission System Vent Control Circuit.

Doing some googlin' it seems the order to take this is:

1) Replace/ clean gas cap

Then if light comes back it could be: Vent solenoid or charcoal canister

Is this more or less the way to go?

I'm wondering if an inspection at the Lexus dealership with their diagnostic tools would eliminate the guess and check of this issue?

Edit: While i'm here, does anyone know where the vent solenoid is on the 02' ES300?

 

Hello,

I also had a P0446 code recently, and I managed to combat it with the new Purge Solenoid located on the charcoal canister in the back of the vehicle. What I would suggest to do is check the solenoid and all the hoses around the charcoal canister. To check the solenoid, apply 12V to it and listen for a click, you can also blow in it, it should be completely closed once in the off position. You can also check the VSV for CCV located under the hood on the air box, using the same technique, though it has an opposite logic to it (open when off). If solenoids and all the hoses are good, check the gas cap. Though a bit unlikely, this issue can also be caused by a vapor pressure sensor near the charcoal canister. If none of that help, you will probably need to visit a service station to get your EVAP system smoke-tested.

Lexus dealership will more than likely be able to find the cause, it is just that their services come at a significant price. I would suggest you to do as much diagnosing as possible yourself before going to any repair shop, just in case if it would turn out to be something simple.

Hope this helps and best of luck!

 

Could be you broke a solenoid valve while messing around under the hood. I change the plugs and unbeknownst to me I broke one. The plastics there are very brittle.