P2442 OBD-II Trouble Code: Secondary Air Injection System Switching Valve Stuck Open Bank 2

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Cost of diagnosing the P2442 code

P2442 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for "Secondary Air Injection System Switching Valve Stuck Open Bank 2". This can happen for multiple reasons and a mechanic needs to diagnose the specific cause for this code to be triggered in your situation. Our certified mobile mechanics can come to your home or office to perform the Check Engine Light diagnostic for $154.99 . Once we are able to diagnose the problem, you will be provided with an upfront quote for the recommended fix and receive $50.0 off as a credit towards the repair. All our repairs are backed by our 12-month / 12,000-mile warranty.

Cars Estimate* Credit towards follow-up repair Earliest Availability
Ford $154.99 $50.0
Toyota $154.99 $50.0
BMW $164.99 $50.0

*Estimates may vary by market

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P2442 code definition

The P2442 code is a generic powertrain code related to the auxiliary emissions control system. This particular code appears when the bank 2 secondary air injection valve stays open.

The P2442 code is also related to:

What the P2442 code means

If a P2442 code comes up, a one-way check valve is stuck open in the secondary air injection system, causing too much airflow into the exhaust and allowing hot exhaust gas to travel back into the pump. If the PCM receives a voltage reading of more than 10% of the allowed amount the P2442 code will be stored.

The secondary air intake system is part of a vehicle’s emissions control system and works to support the function of the catalytic converter. The switching valves allow the air pump to pump air into the exhaust stream when an engine is cold, speeding up the process of warming the catalytic converter to burn unused fuel.

As unburned fuel is more toxic to the environment than burned fuel, high amounts of unburned fuel cause increased vehicle emissions.

What causes the P2442 code?

The P2442 trouble code occurs mostly in cold weather and can be caused by a number of potential issues, including:

  • Water sucked into the air injection pumps.
  • Damaged or defective vacuum switching or air valves
  • Damaged or defective pressure sensor
  • Poor or damaged electrical connections or shorted wiring.
  • Faulty air injection pump
  • Leaking air injection tubes.

What are the Symptoms of the P2442 Code?

Symptoms of a P2442 trouble code may include:

How Does a Mechanic Diagnose the P2442 Code?

A mechanic may use one or more methods to diagnose the P2442 code, including (but not limited to):

  • Utilize an OBD-II scanner to check for any trouble codes stored in the PCM

  • Test and check for damaged or defective one-way check valves

  • Check pumps for moisture

  • Check for any visible signs of damage, such as frayed or damaged wires due to corrosion or excess heat from exhaust gasses

  • Check for damaged hoses or fittings

  • Check for blown fuses

  • Clear code and test-drive to see if any codes reappear

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing the P2442 Code

The most common cause of the P2442 code is moisture in the air injection pumps. But, the issue may not be in the pump itself. If the secondary air injection pump is replaced and the root cause of the failed pump is not diagnosed, the pump may continue to fail, resulting in additional replacements.

How Serious is the P2442 Code?

Because the vehicle could go into “limp mode” or stall, YourMechanic considers this a potentially serious issue. Take the vehicle into your local dealer service center of repair shop for diagnosis and repair immediately.

What Repairs can fix the P2442 code?

  • Replace or repair defective or damaged one-way check valves
  • Replace or repair any faulty wiring
  • Replace or repair any faulty hoses or fittings
  • Replace any blown fuses
  • Clean pumps and assembly and test
  • Follow all the manufacturer's instructions in a related technical service bulletin

Additional Comments for Consideration Regarding the P2442 Code

Some manufacturers have issued technical service bulletins (TSBs) about this fault, so it’s always a good idea to check for any associated bulletins before making any repairs.

Need Help with a P2442 Code?

YourMechanic offers certified mobile mechanics who will come to your home or office to diagnose and repair your vehicle. Get a quote and book an appointment online or speak to a service advisor at 1-800-701-6230.

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