Hondas have always been known for reliability and great performance. However, that does not mean they never encounter any issues. The P2646 error code is one issue that has been known to affect the performance of Honda vehicles, including those with J-series, K-series, and R18 engines alike. Whether you encounter the P2646 code on your Honda Element or CR-V, you’re likely to run into the same problem with the car’s Variable Valve Timing and lift Electronic Control (VTEC) system. In this guide, we’ll cover what the code means, common symptoms associated with it, how to fix it, and how much you can expect to pay to have it fixed.
|
Code Number |
Code Description |
|---|---|
|
P2646 |
“A” Rocker Arm Actuator System Performance/Stuck Off |
Related
Everything You Need to Know About Engine Oil
From choosing the right motor oil to refilling it
What Does The Honda P2646 Error Code Mean?
Like all ‘P’ codes, this code is set by the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The P2646 code indicates the VTEC system is stuck off or non-operational. VTEC works by allowing the PCM to control the oil pressure to the rocker arms. The oil pressure is monitored by the PCM via the Rocker Arm Oil Pressure sensor and the oil routing and flow is controlled by the rocker arm oil control valve. The PCM triggers the P2646 code when the rocker arm oil control solenoid is ON, and the Engine Oil Pressure (EOP) sensor output reading remains low. In other words, if the PCM does not pick up the desired oil pressure reading from the rocker arm oil pressure sensor, the code is set.
What is the P2646 code on a Honda K24 Engine?
The P2646 code is known to affect all Honda models. This means the code is the same for the K24 and K20 Honda engines.
What Causes The Honda P2646 Code?
These are the potential reported causes for the P2646 error code:
- Low engine oil
- Contaminated engine oil
- Faulty oil pressure switch
- Faulty oil control valve
- Faulty PCM
- Loose or poor wiring connections
- PCM calibration
- Restricted oil passage
Honda P2646 Error Code Symptoms
The following are the reported symptoms associated with the P2646 error code:
- Illuminated Check Engine Light (CEL)
- VTEC is inoperable
- Reduced power
- Reduced fuel economy
- Engine ticking noise
Can I Still Drive My Honda With The P2646 Error Code Present?
The engine will continue to run with the fault code present. However, we recommend repairing the code as soon as possible due to the possibility of having a lack of oil pressure at the valvetrain. This can lead to costly engine damage, which you’ll want to avoid. Additionally, the reduced engine performance could make the vehicle sluggish, leaving you in harm’s way when merging or pulling out into traffic.
Add CarBuzz to your Google News feed.
How To Fix The Honda P2646 Error Code
Before making any repair attempts to remedy the P2646 error code, you’ll want to confirm the PCM is setting the code. Additionally, it’s possible for other Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) to be set along with the P2646 code. To see what code(s) have been set, a system scan will need to be done. You can have your Honda’s On-Board Diagnostic System (OBD-II) scanned by auto repair shops, dealerships, emissions testing facilities, and even local parts stores. Once the code is confirmed, we can begin our diagnosis. There can be several causes for the P2646 error code, as we listed above, so we’ll cover the most common repairs reported fixing the P2646 error code.
Oil Level And Condition
The proper level and condition of engine oil is important for any engine. Low engine oil is a common cause of any VTEC issue. Begin by checking your engine’s oil level and condition. Engine oil should remain between the ‘ADD’ and ‘FULL’ marks. If the engine oil is heavily discolored, perform an oil change. If the engine oil is low, add oil and check the operation.
It’s important to use the oil specified by the manufacturer, otherwise faults can occur.
Faulty Rocker Arm Oil Pressure Sensor
It’s possible that the rocker arm oil pressure switch has failed on your engine. Inspect the oil pressure sensor wires for loose connections or corrosion. Inspect the oil pressure sensor O-ring. If the o-ring is leaking, the sensor reading can be skewed.
To replace the EOP sensor, follow these steps:
- Locate the EOP sensor. The sensor is located at the corner of the cylinder head on the intake side.
- Disconnect the electrical connector at the sensor.
- Using a sensor socket, remove the oil pressure sensor.
- Replace the EOP sensor and O-ring.
Always replace the O-ring when the oil pressure sensor is removed.
Faulty Oil Control Valve
The VTEC oil solenoid uses a fine mesh screen to prevent particulates from obstructing the oil flow or valve position. It’s not uncommon for these screens to become blocked or for the valve to fail. Follow these steps to replace the oil control solenoid:
- Locate the oil control valves. These are next to the oil pressure switch and are often mistaken for one another. The oil control valve is retained by a 10mm bolt.
- Disconnect the electrical connector and remove the retainer fastener.
- Replace the oil control valve and O-ring.
Never use RTV to seal the EOP sensor or control valve. Too much RTV can block the hydraulic oil passage, skew the sensor reading, or obstruct the control valve.
In some scenarios, it’s possible to replace the filter screen of the valve to repair the P2646 code.
How Much Does It Cost To Fix The Honda P2646 Error Code?
In most cases, fixing the P2646 error code is not going to be extremely expensive. RepairPal estimates the cost to replace a variable valve timing control solenoid for a Honda Accord to be between $180 and $290. If you find the oil control valve screen is clogged, a replacement will cost around $10. An oil pressure sensor replacement will cost around $160 to $180 for the Accord.
In one of the best-case scenarios for resolving the P2646 error code, an oil change on your Honda will cost between $100 and $125. If you do this service yourself following our oil change guide, you can expect to save between $40 and $60.
Related
How To Change Your Car’s Oil In 3 Easy Steps
This is a simple service you could perform yourself.
The Honda P2646 code is one you’ll want to repair as soon as possible. This will restore power, efficiency, and peace of mind while driving your Honda. Most DIYers can easily perform these repairs to save money and avoid vehicle downtime. We recommend checking the engine oil level first, as this could be the reason for the code being set. The other low-cost alternatives are to clean the filter screen of the oil control solenoid and replace the O-rings on the solenoid and pressure sensor. These do not always work, but some people have had success with these repairs.
| Component Cost Estimates | |
|---|---|
| Component | Estimated Cost |
| Oil control valve | $100 – $230 |
| Oil control filter/screen | $8 – $22 |
| EOP sensor | $10 – $70 |
| Oil change kit | $40 – $100 |