Faulty exhaust valve control solenoid or actuator.; Open or shorted wiring in the control circuit (e.g., broken wire, chafed insulation).; Corroded or loose electrical connectors at the solenoid or ECM.; Failed engine control module (ECM) driver circuit.; Internal mechanical failure of the exhaust valve or variable valve timing component.

DTC codes / P34xx · Auxiliary emission controls / P3416

P3416Cylinder 2 Exhaust Valve Control Circuit High

Q: What does code P3416 mean?

Cylinder 2 Exhaust Valve Control Circuit High. P3416 is a generic powertrain code indicating that the engine control module (ECM) has detected an abnormally high voltage on the control circuit for the cylinder 2 exhaust valve. This typically means the circuit is open, shorted to power, or the valve actuator solenoid has failed, preventing the ECM from properly commanding the exhaust valve.

P3416 is a generic powertrain code indicating that the engine control module (ECM) has detected an abnormally high voltage on the control circuit for the cylinder 2 exhaust valve. This typically means the circuit is open, shorted to power, or the valve actuator solenoid has failed, preventing the ECM from properly commanding the exhaust valve.

SystemPowertrain

Code typeGeneric (all makes)

SeverityMedium

Fix difficultyIntermediate

AreaAuxiliary emission controls

Symptoms you may notice

Illumination of the check engine light (malfunction indicator lamp).
Rough idle or misfire, especially noticeable at low speeds.
Reduced engine performance and power output.
Increased fuel consumption due to inefficient combustion.
Possible engine vibration or shaking during acceleration.
Often no symptoms besides the warning light, especially if the valve remains in a default position.

Common causes, most likely first

Faulty exhaust valve control solenoid or actuator.
Open or shorted wiring in the control circuit (e.g., broken wire, chafed insulation).
Corroded or loose electrical connectors at the solenoid or ECM.
Failed engine control module (ECM) driver circuit.
Internal mechanical failure of the exhaust valve or variable valve timing component.

How to diagnose and fix it

Use a scan tool to verify the code and check for related freeze-frame data.
Visually inspect the wiring harness and connectors for damage, corrosion, or loose pins.
Measure resistance of the exhaust valve control solenoid and compare to manufacturer specifications.
Check for voltage on the control circuit with the key on and engine off to detect a short to power.
Perform a continuity test on the ground circuit and repair any open or high-resistance faults.
If the circuit and solenoid test good, suspect the ECM and perform pinpoint diagnostics before replacement.

Don't overlook the wiring harness

A common oversight is assuming the solenoid is at fault when the real issue is a chafed wire grounding against the engine block.
The code can be set by a poor connection at the ECM connector, which is often missed during visual inspections.
On some vehicles, this code may be triggered by a failing variable valve timing (VVT) solenoid that shares the same circuit.
Replacing the ECM without first verifying the control circuit can lead to repeat failures and unnecessary expense.
Intermittent faults may only appear when the engine is cold or under specific load conditions, so a wiggle test of the harness is essential.

Can I keep driving with P3416?

Driving with this code is generally not recommended because it can cause engine misfires and reduced performance, potentially leading to catalytic converter damage. Avoid heavy acceleration and have the vehicle diagnosed promptly.

Tools that help

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Guidance is general and written for all OBD-II vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.