Damaged or disconnected wiring harness to the cylinder 7 exhaust valve solenoid; Corroded or loose electrical connector at the valve solenoid; Failed exhaust valve control solenoid (open or shorted internally); Faulty PCM driver circuit for the solenoid; High resistance in the ground circuit for the solenoid; Mechanical binding of the exhaust valve mechanism increasing current draw

DTC codes / P34xx · Auxiliary emission controls / P3455

P3455Cylinder 7 Exhaust Valve Control Circuit Low

Q: What does code P3455 mean?

Cylinder 7 Exhaust Valve Control Circuit Low. P3455 indicates that the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected a low-voltage condition on the electrical circuit that controls the exhaust valve for cylinder 7. This circuit typically operates a solenoid or actuator that adjusts exhaust flow, and a low signal means the PCM sees voltage below the expected threshold, which can prevent the valve from functioning correctly.

P3455 indicates that the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected a low-voltage condition on the electrical circuit that controls the exhaust valve for cylinder 7. This circuit typically operates a solenoid or actuator that adjusts exhaust flow, and a low signal means the PCM sees voltage below the expected threshold, which can prevent the valve from functioning correctly.

SystemPowertrain

Code typeGeneric (all makes)

SeverityMedium

Fix difficultyIntermediate

AreaAuxiliary emission controls

Symptoms you may notice

Illumination of the check engine light, often with no other noticeable symptoms
Rough idle or misfire-like behavior, especially under light load
Reduced engine performance or power output
Poor fuel economy due to inefficient exhaust flow
Audible ticking or tapping from the valve area in some cases
In rare instances, the engine may enter limp mode

Common causes, most likely first

Damaged or disconnected wiring harness to the cylinder 7 exhaust valve solenoid
Corroded or loose electrical connector at the valve solenoid
Failed exhaust valve control solenoid (open or shorted internally)
Faulty PCM driver circuit for the solenoid
High resistance in the ground circuit for the solenoid
Mechanical binding of the exhaust valve mechanism increasing current draw

How to diagnose and fix it

Inspect the wiring harness and connector at the cylinder 7 exhaust valve solenoid for damage or corrosion
Measure resistance of the solenoid and compare to specification
Check for voltage supply and ground at the solenoid connector with the key on
Test the control circuit from the PCM to the solenoid for continuity and shorts
If the circuit tests good, suspect the PCM and perform pinpoint tests according to service information
Replace the faulty solenoid or repair wiring as needed, then clear codes and verify

What P3455 doesn't always mean

A low circuit code often results from a poor connection or chafed wire rather than a failed solenoid, so always inspect the harness before replacing parts.
The exhaust valve control system may be part of a variable valve timing or cylinder deactivation strategy, and a fault here can cause drivability issues that mimic ignition problems.
Some vehicles use a single control module for multiple exhaust valves, so a low circuit on one cylinder can be caused by a shared power or ground issue.
Clearing the code without repairing the underlying circuit will usually result in the code returning quickly, especially under specific driving conditions.
A mechanical binding in the exhaust valve can increase current draw and set a low circuit code, so check for free movement of the valve mechanism.

Can I keep driving with P3455?

You can generally drive the vehicle with this code, but avoid aggressive acceleration or heavy loads because the exhaust valve may not function correctly, which can affect performance and emissions. Have the fault diagnosed soon to prevent potential damage to the catalytic converter or other exhaust components.

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.