Engine-CodesGeneric – P3420

P3420 Code - Cylinder 3 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit High

Quick Answer

The diagnostic trouble code P3420 indicates an issue with the Cylinder 3 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit being too high. Common causes include Faulty cylinder deactivation solenoid, Wiring issues or shorts in the control circuit, Engine control module (ECM) malfunction. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means
P3420 indicates Cylinder 3 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit High.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty cylinder deactivation solenoid, Wiring issues or shorts in the control circuit, Engine control module (ECM) malfunction.
Severity
High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?
Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 07, 2024
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Code P3420 Description

The diagnostic trouble code P3420 indicates an issue with the Cylinder 3 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit being too high. This code is typically found in vehicles equipped with cylinder deactivation technology, which allows the engine to deactivate specific cylinders under light load conditions to improve fuel efficiency. In this case, cylinder 3 is not deactivating properly, which can lead to various performance issues.

OBDII Code P3420 - Cylinder 3 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit High
P3420 Code - Cylinder 3 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit High

Common Causes of P3420

  1. Faulty cylinder deactivation solenoid
  2. Wiring issues or shorts in the control circuit
  3. Engine control module (ECM) malfunction
  4. Mechanical issue with the intake valve system
  5. Poor maintenance or lack of oil changes leading to sludge buildup

Symptoms of P3420

  1. Rough engine operation
  2. Misfires
  3. Reduced power and acceleration
  4. Decreased fuel efficiency
  5. Check Engine Light illuminated

How to Fix P3420

  1. Begin by conducting a visual inspection of the wiring and connectors associated with the Cylinder 3 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit.
  2. Test the cylinder deactivation solenoid to ensure it is functioning correctly.
  3. Check the engine control module (ECM) for any error codes or malfunctions.
  4. If necessary, replace the faulty solenoid, repair any wiring issues, or reprogram the ECM to address the problem.
  5. Clear the trouble codes and test drive the vehicle to ensure the issue has been resolved.

Cost to Fix P3420

The cost of repairing a Cylinder 3 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit High issue can vary depending on the specific cause of the problem and the vehicle's make and model. Generally, parts for this repair can range from $100 to $300, while labor costs can range from $150 to $400. Overall, the total repair cost could be between $250 and $700. It's important to consider that labor rates can vary based on location and the type of repair shop, so it's advisable to obtain quotes from multiple sources before proceeding with the repair.

When is the Code Detected?

The control module detects that the actual measured values from the MAF sensor, MAP sensor, and TP sensor, is not within the range of the calculated values for cylinder deactivation mode

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Code P3420 Information for Specific Makes

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

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