What does code P3446 mean?

Q: What does code P3446 mean?

Cylinder 6 Exhaust Valve Control Performance. P3446 indicates that the powertrain control module has detected a performance fault in the exhaust valve control system for cylinder 6, typically on engines equipped with variable valve timing or cylinder deactivation. The computer monitors the exhaust valve's ability to switch between low-lift and high-lift profiles, and it sets this code when the commanded state does not match the actual valve motion within a calibrated time window.

DTC codes / P34xx · Auxiliary emission controls / P3446

P3446Cylinder 6 Exhaust Valve Control Performance

P3446 indicates that the powertrain control module has detected a performance fault in the exhaust valve control system for cylinder 6, typically on engines equipped with variable valve timing or cylinder deactivation. The computer monitors the exhaust valve's ability to switch between low-lift and high-lift profiles, and it sets this code when the commanded state does not match the actual valve motion within a calibrated time window.

SystemPowertrain

Code typeGeneric (all makes)

SeverityMedium

Fix difficultyProfessional

AreaAuxiliary emission controls

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