p0446 CEL on

[clearwaterms]

I did a search and didn't find anything on the 06 cars regarding this check engine code.

I have also from time to time gotten the small EVAP leak (gas cap light) and large EVAP leak (CEL) but didn't record the CEL numbers on those (just cleared them and kept driving)

THe p0446 will come on (and stay on, even though the code isn't present any longer) about once every week or two. I suspect something is broken, but honestly do not no where to start. If somebody has the service book in PDF, I would happily do the research myself.

I took it to my mechanic and he said it passed a smoke test, but failed a OBDII test and told me it would be approx. $200 just to find out what has failed. Ford wants $95 to drop it off, and I don't feel like paying Ford service prices.

So I have an OBDII scanner (without alot of understanding of how to use it) and alot of tools, and a mechanic for a friend that is willing to come over and wrench on what ever is broken. The only problem is I don't know what is broken. Please help

 

[bill32399]

I would probablly start with replacing the gas cap and see if that helps.

 

[clearwaterms]

I would probablly start with replacing the gas cap and see if that helps.

I put in a replacement gas cap from Autozone, and that has not resolved the issue.

 

[bill32399]

Well that was the easy idea. Had the same prob with 2 of my newer Mazda's and it ended up being some return valve with the fuel system that returns the unburned fuel vapors back into fuel system. It was causing a popping sound after a refuel and starting issues along with a check engine light. luckly it was a warranty thing on both so I wondered if maybe you had the same deal.

 

[clearwaterms]

Well that was the easy idea. Had the same prob with 2 of my newer Mazda's and it ended up being some return valve with the fuel system that returns the unburned fuel vapors back into fuel system. It was causing a popping sound after a refuel and starting issues along with a check engine light. luckly it was a warranty thing on both so I wondered if maybe you had the same deal.

thank you for the suggestion - I have read that there is a vent under the spare tire that gets dirty. However, that was on the 96-01 cars, and I don't know if they moved the vent on the 02 or the 06 cars.