P3456 - OBD Trouble Code

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Are you looking for information with respect to P3456 error code? Keep reading further. In order to meet fuel and emission standards, most manufacturers use cylinder deactivation system. The PCM will disable the selected cylinders when more power is not necessary from the engine like idling or cruising on the highway. The error code will be set when the exhaust valve for cylinder #7 does not turn on or off when needed.

The aim of cylinder 7 exhaust valve control circuit is turning off the exhaust valve to allow the cylinder deactivation feature, so that fuel economy can be improvised when the operation is light or idle on the highway. The 4 or 8 cylinder modes is controlled by the ECM which deactivates 4 engine cylinders. This is done by including variable valve timing solenoids which turn on and off the exhaust valves. This error refers to the 7 cylinder and other cylinders will be identified by engine configuration and firing orders. The #7 cylinder is placed on or near the exhaust manifold in the vicinity of the cylinder depending on the particular configuration of the vehicle.

What causes this problem with the Cylinder 7 Exhaust Valve Control Circuit High?

• Malfunctioning of the cylinder deactivation solenoid.
• The cylinder deactivation solenoid harness might have a short circuit or you might find an opening.
• The electrical connection might be poor in the circuit of the cylinder deactivation solenoid.
• Passage of the oil is limited.
• Oil pressure might be low.

1. Engine Control Module Engine stalling is one of the symptoms for a defective ECM which needs replacement as soon as possible.
2. Powertrain Control Module - A faulty PCM can cause misfiring issues and the engine behavior might also be erratic. If your vehicle is causing misfiring issues, then it is because of a faulty powertrain control module. Shop them from Parts Avatar at best prices online.
3. Intake Valve - Check the intake valve if it is damaged or broken. If you find the intake valve to be defective get the replacement part from Parts Avatar.
4. Exhaust Valve - The engine will start consuming more oil if the exhaust valve is broken. Repair or replace it as quickly as possible.
5. Oil Pressure Gauge - The oil pressure gauge has to be damage free so that it functions normally. If it’s broken fix them soon.
6. Valve Timing Solenoid - A decrease in fuel economy is an indication of defective valve timing solenoid. Change it as quickly as possible.

If you are facing OBD error code P3456, then there are significant common symptoms that can be felt or observed. We have worked out a list here to help you out in understanding this problem better.

Common Symptoms

• Flashing of the engine light or service engine will indicate you with a warning light.
• Engine performance might be weak.
• Fuel consumption is high.
• The engine might misfire

It is very important to fix the fault code P3456. So here are some ways with which you can correct this issue:

• Damaged variable valve timing solenoid needs fixation
• Oil passage must be cleared from blocks.
• Cleaning the corroded connectors.
• Changing the faulty cables.
• ECM needs alteration or flashing.

To do all this, you will need a few high-quality auto parts such as ECM, PCM, intake valve, exhaust valve, oil pressure gauge, valve timing solenoid, exhaust manifold and so on. From where will you get them? From your local store? Well, why go there when you can order quality parts with us while sitting in the comfort of your home. So, just browse through our website and order your needed parts today.

It is essential to diagnose this fault code. Here are some steps which a mechanic should follow for diagnosing the problem that triggered a P3456 code to be stored:

• You have to carefully research for the technical service bulletin for your vehicle on the basis of the year, model and transmission before you proceed with any diagnostic process.
• This is highly essential as it can save plenty of time by guiding you on the right path.
• The initial step is to check the level of the engine oil and make sure it is filled to the correct level.
• Find the component that is linked with the cylinder 7 exhaust valve control circuit and look for obvious possible damages.
• Carefully inspect the condition of the wires, connectors, electrical connections, and pins for any damages or corrosions. This inspection must also include other components like variable valve timing solenoid, switches, fault indicators, and the ECM.
• Check the specific technical data of the vehicle to make sure that the configuration is right and every component merged within the cylinder 1 exhaust valve control circuit find out

Advanced steps

• Advanced tools are needed to perform advanced steps which is specific to your vehicle.
• To perform this diagnosis, you need a digital voltmeter and technical references which is specific to your vehicle.
• Before proceeding with the advanced step gather the specific troubleshooting data for your vehicle. 

Voltage checks

• Based on the particular vehicle and configuration, the reference voltage and acceptable range will keep changing.
• For correct diagnosis and for assistance, specific technical data will be needed which includes troubleshooting charts and correct sequence.
• If it is not mentioned specifically, the resistance must be set to 0 ohms for wires and connections. Frequent continuity check must be carried out by removing power so that there is no damage to the circuit.
• If there is no proper continuity, then there will be an open or short circuit which needs a quick replacement.

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P3456 code

• The PCM might be faulty.
• Electrical wiring issues.
• Reduced engine oil level.
• Defective variable valve timing solenoid