Error Code P3429: What It Means & What To Do?

<<See All OBD Codes

The trouble code P3429 can be elucidated as Cylinder 4 Exhaust Valve Control Circuit/Open. There are a number of fuel and emissions standards, so in an effort to meet that lot of manufacturers are using the cylinder deactivation systems. This system would allow the engine control module (PCM) to disable select cylinders when additional power is not required from the engine, such as at idle or when cruising on the highway. Now if the engine control module (PCM) would decide that the intake valve for cylinder number two is not turning on or off the way is being commanded, then the powertrain control module would set up this fault code.

The cylinder 4 exhaust valve control circuit is being monitored by the engine control module. This trouble code would be set by the ECM when the cylinder 4 exhaust valve control circuit would not be as per the specifications set by the manufacturer.

What Causes This Problem With The Cylinder 4 Exhaust Valve Control Circuit/Open?

• Malfunctioning variable valve timing solenoid
• Little engine oil pressure or level
• Obstructed oil passage
• Defaults in the wiring
• The connector might be loose
• Faulty ECM

1. Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve - Did you just see check engine light flashing on your dashboard? If the computer would detect some faults with the automobile’s EGR valve circuit, then it would set up the check engine light so that the driver is notified about the fault. Don’t waste time and get them replaced or else this fault code can turn up.
2. Engine Control Module - Dead cells in batteries can cause a failure in the engine control module. Many times a battery is left in the rig long after a cell has died. This would affect the grounding in the car battery.
3. Manifold Absolute Pressure Sensor - The MAP sensor would fail by getting clogged, contaminated, or sometimes damaged. There can be times when the engine heat would “overcook” the electronics of the MAP sensor and can cause cracks vacuum lines. So, it is very important to take proper care of the MAP sensor and in case you need a new one, then Parts Avatar is here at your service.
4. Powertrain Control Module - If there are some faults in the PCM, then it may throw off the timing and fuel settings of the engine, which can negatively affect the performance. A flawed PCM may cause the vehicle to experience a reduction in fuel efficiency, power as well as acceleration.
5. Throttle Position Sensor - Faulty throttle position sensor can cause bucking and jerking in the vehicle. It may also cause sudden idle surges and engine stalling without any reason. Thus, replace faulty throttle position sensor now!
6. Electronic Control Unit - Do you know that the poor performance or unexplained drops in fuel economy or efficiency are often associated to onboard car computer problems, or defective ECU issues?
7. Diagnostic Tools - Use factory grade diagnostic tools to resolve OBD code P3429 error. Buy new diagnostic tools and equipment for us.

You might be thinking that how would you diagnose these problems? We at Parts Avatar Canada would help you diagnose the major symptoms easily.

Common Symptoms

• Visibility in the check engine light
• Engine misfiring issues
• The fuel consumption might be increased
• Inferior engine performance
• Appearance of the service engine soon light

Looking out for some ways with the help of which you can correct this fault code? Then you have arrived at the correct place. We are here to help you out, so you must check out the steps mentioned below as follows:

• Repair or replace the quirky variable valve timing solenoid
• Rehabilitate the defaults in the valve lifters
• The malfunctioning wiring should be repaired or replaced as per the need
• Carefully adjust the mechanical failure within the engine
• The MAF, MAP, or TP sensors should be restored to working order
• Recondition the non-functioning connectors

There is no need to get strained if your OBD Code is still flashing up as we are here at your service. Have a look at our superior variety of camshaft, mass air flow sensor, throttle position sensor, powertrain control module, engine control module, manifold absolute pressure, exhaust valve control solenoid, valve lifter oil manifold, maf sensor, map sensor, pcm car, ecm car, body control module, pcm module, ecm module, throttle body sensor and many more. Now all your problems would vanish within no time.

Here are some steps which you should follow in order to diagnose this fault code:

After verifying the P3429 code with an OBD-II scanner, the mechanic should begin with a visual inspection of all electrical components, especially looking for some issues in the engine oil levels and pressure. Any issues should be repaired, and the code should be cleared from the system. If the code reappears after a retest, the mechanic should then move on to performing voltage tests and resistance tests on the sensor, and comparing the information to the manufacturer’s specifications. If the readings are within the correct limits, then the sensor needs to be replaced. However, if the readings are not within the correct limits, then the issue lies elsewhere. It is essential to clean the oil passages to remove possible clogs, and replace the lifters. This process would be helpful in eliminating the most basic issues with the cylinder deactivation system, and help narrow down what could be the cause of the P3429 code. The mechanic should continue checking each possible cause, clearing the code and retesting the system after each attempt, to be sure that the correct solution is found.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing The P3429 Code

• Flaws in the variable valve timing solenoid
• Low level of engine oil
• There can be some issues in the powertrain control module
• Failure in the car wiring