What Does P3433 Mean?
The ECM has detected an open or general malfunction in the intake valve control solenoid circuit for cylinder 5 deactivation. This code is part of the cylinder deactivation system (AFM/MDS/VCM) that disables cylinders under light load conditions to improve fuel economy. An open circuit means the ECM cannot energize the solenoid that controls the intake valve lifter on cylinder 5.
Common Causes
35%
Open circuit in the wiring between the ECM and the cylinder 5 intake valve deactivation solenoid
30%
Failed cylinder 5 intake valve deactivation solenoid (open coil)
20%
Corroded, bent, or backed-out pins at the VLOM connector or ECM connector
15%
ECM internal driver circuit failure for cylinder 5 intake valve
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Locate the valve lifter oil manifold (VLOM) on the engine and identify the cylinder 5 intake valve solenoid connector. Inspect for obvious damage, corrosion, or disconnected wiring.
2
Step 2: Disconnect the solenoid and measure coil resistance across its terminals with a DVOM. Expect 5-12 ohms. An infinite (OL) reading confirms an open solenoid coil requiring replacement.
3
Step 3: With the solenoid disconnected, use the scan tool to command the cylinder 5 intake valve solenoid ON. Measure voltage at the harness connector — expect battery voltage. No voltage indicates an open in the supply or control wire.
4
Step 4: Perform a continuity check on both wires from the ECM connector to the VLOM connector. Repair any open circuits found in the harness.
5
Step 5: If all wiring and the solenoid test normal, perform a solenoid functional test by applying 12V directly to the solenoid. Verify audible click and oil flow control. If functional, 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 intake valve control solenoid circuit for cylinder 5 deactivation. This code is part of the cylinder deactivation system (AFM/MDS/VCM) that disables cylinders under light load conditions to improve fuel economy. An open circuit means the ECM...
The most common cause of P3433 (Cylinder 5 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit/Open) is: Open circuit in the wiring between the ECM and the cylinder 5 intake valve deactivation solenoid
Typical repair costs for P3433 range from $150 to $800, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
The vehicle can be driven safely, but cylinder deactivation will be disabled. Expect reduced fuel economy and the engine may run slightly rougher than normal at highway cruising speeds.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to P3433 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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