HomeTrouble CodesP3416

P3416 — Cylinder 2 Exhaust Valve Control Circuit High

Manufacturer-specificPowertrain (engine & transmission)

OBD-II code P3416 indicates that the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected a high voltage condition in the exhaust valve control circuit for cylinder 2. This is often related to cylinder deactivation systems, where the PCM commands oil flow to deactivate the exhaust valve, and a high circuit reading suggests a short to voltage, a faulty solenoid, or a wiring issue.

Symptoms

What causes it — most likely first

1. Faulty cylinder deactivation solenoid (VLOM solenoid) for cylinder 2

The solenoid that controls oil flow to the exhaust valve lifter may be stuck open or shorted internally, causing a high voltage reading in the control circuit.

2. Wiring harness short to voltage

The control circuit wire for the cylinder 2 exhaust valve solenoid may be chafed or pinched, contacting a power source and causing a constant high voltage signal.

3. Faulty exhaust valve lifter (deactivation lifter)

A mechanically stuck or collapsed lifter can alter the expected electrical feedback, leading the PCM to interpret the circuit as high.

4. Poor electrical connection at the solenoid or PCM

Corrosion, loose terminals, or backed-out pins in the solenoid connector or PCM connector can cause intermittent high resistance or voltage readings.

5. Faulty PCM (rare)

The PCM itself may have an internal driver failure, but this is the least likely cause and should only be considered after all other possibilities are thoroughly ruled out.

How it's diagnosed

  1. Scan for additional codes and record freeze frame data to identify the conditions when P3416 was set.
  2. Visually inspect the wiring harness and connectors for the cylinder 2 exhaust valve solenoid, looking for chafing, melted insulation, or loose connections.
  3. Test the resistance of the cylinder 2 exhaust valve solenoid using a multimeter; compare to manufacturer specifications. An out-of-range reading indicates a faulty solenoid.
  4. Check the oil pressure supply to the valve lifter oil manifold (VLOM) and ensure the engine oil level and condition are correct, as low or dirty oil can affect solenoid operation.
  5. Perform a cylinder deactivation system functional test with a scan tool, if available, to command the solenoid on and off while monitoring circuit voltage.
  6. If all other tests pass, inspect the lifter for mechanical binding and, as a last resort, test the PCM's control circuit output with an oscilloscope to rule out an internal fault.

Code facts & related codes

SystemPowertrain (engine & transmission)
StandardizationManufacturer-specific (P1/B1/C1/U1)

Frequently asked

What does code P3416 mean?

It means the PCM has detected a higher-than-expected voltage in the electrical circuit that controls the exhaust valve deactivation for cylinder 2. This is often related to variable displacement or cylinder deactivation systems.

Can I drive with a P3416 code?

Driving with this code may cause engine misfires, reduced power, and potential damage to the catalytic converter or engine components. It is best to diagnose and repair the issue promptly.

Is the PCM the most likely cause of P3416?

No, the PCM is rarely the cause. The most common causes are a faulty deactivation solenoid, wiring issues, or a mechanical lifter problem. The PCM should only be suspected after all other possibilities are eliminated.

What is the most common fix for P3416?

Replacing the cylinder deactivation solenoid (often part of the VLOM assembly) or repairing a short in the wiring harness are the most frequent repairs. Always check the engine oil level and condition first, as dirty or low oil can trigger this code.