What Does P3442 Mean?
The ECM has detected that the cylinder 6 intake valve deactivation solenoid circuit is not performing within expected parameters. The solenoid responds but exhibits abnormal current draw, response time, or actuation behavior. This compromises the cylinder deactivation system's ability to smoothly control cylinder 6's intake valve.
Common Causes
35%
Oil sludge or debris restricting the cylinder 6 intake valve solenoid or VLOM oil passages
25%
Low engine oil pressure causing slow solenoid hydraulic response
25%
Degrading solenoid coil with out-of-specification resistance
15%
Intermittent electrical connection at the VLOM connector or harness
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Check engine oil level, condition, and type. Dark, gritty, or sludgy oil is the most common cause of solenoid performance issues. Verify correct oil viscosity per manufacturer specification.
2
Step 2: Measure engine oil pressure with a mechanical gauge at idle and 2000 RPM. Compare to factory specifications — low pressure affects all deactivation solenoids.
3
Step 3: Measure the cylinder 6 intake solenoid coil resistance. Values near the extreme ends of the 5-12 ohm range suggest a degrading coil.
4
Step 4: Use a lab scope to capture solenoid current waveform during activation. Compare inrush current spike and hold current against a known-good solenoid on the same engine.
5
Step 5: Swap the cylinder 6 intake solenoid with an adjacent known-good solenoid. If the performance code follows, replace the solenoid. If it stays on cylinder 6, inspect oil passages and wiring.
Estimated Repair Cost
$100 - $700
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
The ECM has detected that the cylinder 6 intake valve deactivation solenoid circuit is not performing within expected parameters. The solenoid responds but exhibits abnormal current draw, response time, or actuation behavior. This compromises the cylinder deactivation system's ability to smoothly co...
The most common cause of P3442 (Cylinder 6 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit Performance) is: Oil sludge or debris restricting the cylinder 6 intake valve solenoid or VLOM oil passages
Typical repair costs for P3442 range from $100 to $700, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Safe to drive. Primary impact is reduced fuel economy and possible NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) during cylinder deactivation transitions. Address underlying oil quality or pressure issues promptly if present.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to P3442 to identify the root cause.
OBDHut Mobile App
Scan codes directly from your car with the OBDHut app.
Coming Soon
Quick Info
Category
Powertrain
System
Cylinder Deactivation System
Difficulty
Type
Generic (SAE)
Recommended Tools
OBD2 Scanner
A quality scan tool helps you read codes, view live data, and clear faults.
