What Does P3437 Mean?
The ECM has detected an open or general malfunction in the exhaust valve control solenoid circuit for cylinder 5. This solenoid is part of the cylinder deactivation system and controls the exhaust valve lifter on cylinder 5. An open circuit condition means the ECM cannot command the exhaust valve to deactivate, disabling the fuel-saving cylinder deactivation mode.
Common Causes
35%
Open circuit in the wiring harness between the ECM and cylinder 5 exhaust valve solenoid
30%
Failed cylinder 5 exhaust valve solenoid with open coil winding
20%
Corroded, backed-out, or damaged pins at the VLOM or ECM connector
15%
ECM internal open in the solenoid driver circuit
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Visually inspect the VLOM connector and wiring for the cylinder 5 exhaust valve solenoid. Look for disconnected plugs, broken wires, or rodent damage.
2
Step 2: Measure the solenoid coil resistance with a DVOM — expect 5-12 ohms. An OL (infinite) reading confirms the solenoid coil is open and requires replacement.
3
Step 3: With the solenoid disconnected, command it ON via scan tool and measure voltage at the harness connector. Expect battery voltage across the control and ground wires.
4
Step 4: Perform end-to-end continuity testing from the ECM connector pins to the VLOM connector pins for both the control and ground circuits.
5
Step 5: If all external tests pass, apply 12V directly to the solenoid to verify mechanical function. If it clicks and the code persists after reconnection, suspect ECM driver failure.
Estimated Repair Cost
$150 - $800
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
The ECM has detected an open or general malfunction in the exhaust valve control solenoid circuit for cylinder 5. This solenoid is part of the cylinder deactivation system and controls the exhaust valve lifter on cylinder 5. An open circuit condition means the ECM cannot command the exhaust valve to...
The most common cause of P3437 (Cylinder 5 Exhaust Valve Control Circuit/Open) is: Open circuit in the wiring harness between the ECM and cylinder 5 exhaust valve solenoid
Typical repair costs for P3437 range from $150 to $800, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Safe to drive. The cylinder deactivation system will be disabled and fuel economy will decrease. No immediate mechanical risk, but repair is recommended to restore full engine management functionality.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to P3437 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Powertrain
System
Cylinder Deactivation System
Difficulty
Type
Generic (SAE)
Recommended Tools
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