What Does P3441 Mean?
The ECM has detected an open or general malfunction in the cylinder 6 intake valve deactivation solenoid control circuit. This solenoid controls the intake valve lifter for cylinder 6 as part of the cylinder deactivation system (AFM/MDS/VCM). An open circuit prevents the ECM from commanding the intake valve on cylinder 6 to deactivate for fuel-saving mode.
Common Causes
35%
Open circuit in the wiring between the ECM and cylinder 6 intake valve solenoid
30%
Failed cylinder 6 intake valve deactivation solenoid with open coil
20%
Corroded or damaged connector pins at the VLOM or ECM connector
15%
ECM internal driver circuit open for the cylinder 6 intake valve solenoid
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Inspect the VLOM connector for the cylinder 6 intake valve solenoid. Check for disconnected plugs, broken wires, damaged pins, or corrosion.
2
Step 2: Measure the solenoid coil resistance — expect 5-12 ohms. An OL (open) reading means the solenoid coil is burned out and needs replacement.
3
Step 3: With the solenoid disconnected, command it ON via scan tool and measure voltage at the harness connector pins. Expect battery voltage when commanded.
4
Step 4: Perform end-to-end continuity tests from the ECM connector to the VLOM connector for both the signal and ground wires.
5
Step 5: If all external components test good, apply 12V directly to the solenoid to verify mechanical operation. A clicking, functioning solenoid with a persistent code after reconnection suggests 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 cylinder 6 intake valve deactivation solenoid control circuit. This solenoid controls the intake valve lifter for cylinder 6 as part of the cylinder deactivation system (AFM/MDS/VCM). An open circuit prevents the ECM from commanding the inta...
The most common cause of P3441 (Cylinder 6 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit/Open) is: Open circuit in the wiring between the ECM and cylinder 6 intake valve solenoid
Typical repair costs for P3441 range from $150 to $800, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Safe to drive. Cylinder deactivation will be disabled by the ECM, reducing fuel economy. No immediate safety concern, but repair is recommended to restore full functionality.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to P3441 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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