P3441 indicates the engine control module has detected an open circuit in the control solenoid or wiring that operates the deactivation intake valve/lifter oiling function for cylinder 6. On engines with cylinder deactivation, this solenoid routes pressurized oil to collapse the intake lifter so the valve stays closed during V4 mode. An open circuit means the commanded electrical path is broken, so the deactivation system cannot function on that cylinder.
The solenoid that controls oil flow to the cylinder 6 intake deactivation lifter is the most common failure. Internal coil windings can open, the plunger can stick, or the valve body can clog, producing the circuit-open fault.
The control wire or ground return between the solenoid and the PCM may be broken, corroded, or pushed out of the connector. Chafing against the valve cover or engine harness is a common location.
Thick, degraded oil or clogged internal oil galleries can prevent the deactivation lifter from operating correctly. In some cases this can trigger a circuit or performance code even before electrical testing shows a fault.
A mechanically stuck or collapsed variable-lift intake lifter can set a deactivation-related code, though this is less common than solenoid or wiring issues.
A PCM driver failure is theoretically possible but rare. It should be considered only after the solenoid, wiring, and oiling conditions have been ruled out.
Usually not. The fault is most often a bad deactivation solenoid, wiring break, or connector problem. Replace or reprogram the PCM only after the solenoid, harness, and oiling system have been thoroughly tested.
Short trips are generally okay, but the deactivation system will be disabled and fuel economy may drop. If the engine runs rough or misfires, have it diagnosed promptly to avoid catalyst or internal wear concerns.
It can help if sludged oil or clogged passages are preventing the lifter from moving, but it will not repair an electrically open solenoid coil or a broken wire. Start with oil inspection and electrical testing.
No. Cylinder deactivation solenoids control oil flow to special lifters that hold intake valves closed, while VVT solenoids adjust camshaft timing. They are different components and should not be confused during diagnosis.