P3415 OBD-II Trouble Code: Cylinder 2 Exhaust Valve Control Malfunction

P3415 code definition

P3415 is the fault code for Cyl2 Exhaust Valve Ctrl Circ Low. Cyl2 specifies that the issue is likely taking place in engine cylinder number 2.

What the P3415 code means

This code indicates there is a problem with the exhaust valve on cylinder number 2. The ECM (engine control module) tells these valves when to open and close, in order to carry exhaust vapors away from the engine after the fuel has been used. When this valve fails to open at the correct time, or at all, the ECM detects that the signal being received falls outside of the expected parameters, and the vehicle will set code P3415 or another cylinder exhaust valve related code.

What causes the P3415 code?

This code can have a number of causes, including one or more of the following:

• A short or an open in the solenoid wiring harness

• A loose connection

• A faulty exhaust valve control solenoid

• Low oil levels or clogged oil passages

• Timing chain maladjustment

• Camshaft actuator malfunction

Rarely, this problem may be caused by a faulty PCM or ECM, but other causes should be exhausted first.

What are the symptoms of the P3415 code?

As with any cylinder malfunction, the Check Engine light will likely illuminate. You may also experience poor acceleration, and fuel efficiency may be affected because the variable valve timing system is typically disabled when a fault of this sort occurs.

How does a mechanic diagnose the P3415 code?

Your technician may perform the following steps in order to diagnose the source of the problem:

• Use of a code scanner to verify that the code is stored, and to check for any concurrent codes

• Diagnosis and repair of other codes, in the order the events occurred

• Test of the exhaust valve solenoid using a scan tool and/or test solenoid

• Visual inspection of wiring and connectors to check for loose connections or corrosion

• Inspection of oil passages to check for restrictions

• Valve lifter inspection

How serious is the P3415 code?

This code isn’t as serious as some problems, but it should be addressed as soon as possible due to the fact that fuel economy and engine performance can both be affected by an exhaust valve malfunction.

What repairs can fix the P3415 code?

Repairing code P3415 may involve one or more of the following:

• Clearing of oil passageways

• Mass airflow sensor, manifold absolute pressure, or throttle position sensor replacement

• Replacement of corroded or damaged wiring or connectors

• Exhaust valve solenoid replacement

• Valve lifter replacement

• Timing and/or camshaft actuator adjustment

Additional comments for consideration regarding the P3415 code

Due to the fact that cylinder valve operation involves many moving parts, as well as complex circuitry, this fault is most efficiently diagnosed by a professional with the proper tools which can offer detailed information on the problem. Making sure that all possible data is collected, using the most advanced diagnostic and testing tools, ensures that expensive parts – such as sensors – aren’t replaced if they don’t need to be. Consulting a qualified technician for a cylinder exhaust valve malfunction can save you time, money, and headaches.

Need help with a P3415 code?

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