P3465 OBD-11 Trouble Code: Cylinder 9 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit/Open

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Cost of diagnosing the P3465 code

P3465 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for "OBD-11 Trouble Code Cylinder 9 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit/Open". 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.

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What the P3465 code means

This code indicates that there is a problem with the exhaust valve on cylinder number 9. When your vehicle’s powertrain control module (PCM) recognizes that the measured values of the mass airflow sensor, the throttle position sensor, and the intake control manifold absolute pressure sensor, are not within the established range for V4 mode, the P3465 code will appear.

When this occurs, the PCM will tell the cylinder deactivation solenoids to start what is called the cylinder deactivation process. The cylinder deactivation solenoids then deactivate cylinder 1, cylinder 4, cylinder 6, and cylinder 7, and they do this by restricting the flow of oil to the valve lifters for these cylinders and not allowing the exhaust and intake valves to open. Your vehicle will not be able to operate under V4 mode if these three sensors are not working within the range that they should be.

What causes the P3465 code?

One cause for a P3465 code is a faulty Cylinder Deactivation Solenoid. It could also be that you have poor oil pressure on your lifters, low oil levels in your engine, or defective lifters. Other options include a Cylinder Deactivation Solenoid circuit with a poor electrical connection or an open or shorted Cylinder Deactivation Solenoid harness.

What are the symptoms of the P3465 code?

The two symptoms associated with a P3465 code are an illuminated Check Engine light and a vibrating engine.

How does a mechanic diagnose the P3465 code?

Always check that your engine oil levels and oil pressure are at their prescribed levels. Next, you can use your OBD-II scanner to gather all diagnostic trouble codes that have been stored by your powertrain control module (PCM).

Always remember that if your PCM has stored other deactivation or oil pressure trouble codes that you will need to work on these first. Always work in the order that the codes appear on your vehicle’s PCM. Next, use your OBD-II to clear your trouble codes, and then test the cylinder deactivation solenoid 1 by actuating it with your scan tool.

A solenoid that is working properly will vibrate and make a tiny ‘click.’ If the cylinder deactivation solenoid 1 is not working as it should (if you do not hear this click), check your oil passages for dirt and debris. You may find that you need to clean out your vehicle’s oil passages. In some instances, you may need to replace your solenoid; however, if the cylinder deactivation solenoid 1 is working properly, then you should examine the cylinder deactivation solenoid 7.

You test this the same way you tested the other solenoid, which is by actuating it with your scan tool. If all your solenoids seem to be working properly, you will need to examine the oil passages to the lifter. Again, clean the passages if you think it is necessary. In extreme cases, the engine block will need to be disassembled and cleaned completely. But make sure that you are trained to do this, since it can become complicated and difficult to reassemble if you don’t know have the proper experience and knowledge.

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P3465 code

A common mistake people make when they see a P3465 code is to replace their wheel speed sensors, crankshaft, and camshaft position sensors. Replacing these is not likely to solve your problems. You should also note that in order to properly diagnose your issue, you will need the right diagnostic equipment. You can acquire this equipment yourself, or you can take your vehicle to a professional technician who can diagnose the issue for you.

How serious is a P3465

A P3465 is serious and, in most cases, should be examined by a professional technician. Not only is a P3465 a serious issue but it is also difficult to fix, requiring costly and specialized diagnostic equipment. If you do not have this equipment, you will want to see a professional technician and have him or her determine just what has gone wrong with your vehicle.

What repairs can fix the P3465 code?

One repair is to replace your cylinder deactivation solenoid 1. However, if this solenoid seems to be working well, you may need to replace your cylinder deactivation solenoid 7, which you test the same way you tested solenoid 1. You may also need to clear your cylinder deactivation solenoid oil passages of debris and dirt, and then clean out your lifter oil passages. In more extreme cases, you will need to replace the lifters in your engine.

If you notice that your engine is packed with debris and dirt, you will probably need to disassemble the entire engine and perform a careful and thorough cleaning. This is difficult job, and you need to do the proper amount of research before starting in.

Additional comments for consideration regarding the P3465 code

A P3465 can be a complicated issue to solve. It may require that you dissemble your entire engine, which is time consuming and frustrating if you do not have the proper training and tools. If you are thinking of doing this on your own, you might want to contact a trained technician to ask questions about the best way to solve your problem.

Need help with a P3465 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 at or speak to a service advisor at 1-800-701-6230.

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